Phyllis Rose Beckman

MADISON-Phyllis Rose Beckman, age 79, of Madison, passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, Dec. 9, 2017. She was born on March 8, 1938, at St. Mary’s hospital in Madison. She was the daughter of Jeremiah Thomas O’Conner and Mary (Raimer) O’Connor.  She married James H. Beckman on May 10, 1958, in Madison.  Phyllis graduated from Madison West High School in 1957.  Her first job was in food services at St. Mary’s Hospital. She went on to do clerical work for the State of Wisconsin. For many years Phyllis was busy at home raising two children, Diane and Linda. After her children started school, Phyllis entered the work force again and worked at the Dane County Cytology Center for many years. In 1986, Phyllis started working for the Boy Scouts of America and remained in this job until she retired. After retirement, she continued to work with her husband’s family business, The Beckman Net Company.  As a teenager, Phyllis became an avid Bridge player and the game continued to be a favorite pastime and a great way for her to stay connected to her high school friends. Over the years, her Bridge Club evolved to include new friends and neighbors. She continued to play cards for most of her life until dementia interfered with her ability to play.  Phyllis enjoyed bowling and was on a WBA league for more than 20 years.  She also enjoyed all types of sewing and stitchery. She taught both her daughters how to sew. Through the years she produced many beautiful cross stitch projects.  The family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to all the wonderful staff at SSM Health at Home Hospice for all their support over the past months.  Phyllis was fully devoted to her family and will be greatly missed by all who knew her.  Phyllis is survived by her husband, James Beckman; daughter, Linda (Mark) Webster; grandchildren, Shaun (Caitlin) Mulligan, Anthony Onstad, Nicole Onstad, Joel (Michelle) Webster and Rachael (Jeremy) Favors; great-grandchildren, Tavian Smith (age 16), Isaiah Dean (age 11), Roman Dean (1 year old), Ellie Mulligan (age 11), Riley and Kayleigh Mulligan (twins-age 10), Isabel Webster (age 8) and Chloe Webster (age 6); sister, Mary Binger; and many nieces and nephews.  She was preceded in death by her parents; daughter Diane Onstad; brother, Thomas; and sisters, Millie and Josephine.  The family will hold a private ceremony at Sunset Memory Gardens.  Please join the family for a visitation at THE COVENTRY VILLAGE, MAIN LOBBY PUB ROOM, 7707 N. Brookline Drive, Madison, from 1 p.m. until 3 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 13, 2017.