Kenneth D. Beckman

Kenneth D. Beckman, age 73, died in his home on August 26th, 2026 surrounded by his family. He was born in Flushing, NY on September 18th, 1952, to Wallace and Kathryn Beckman and was raised in Morton Grove, IL.

Ken is survived by his wife Marilyn Juraska and their dog Prudence; his children Sarah (Jason Lefton), Zachary (Carolyn Carbone); Marilyn’s children Daniel Sodemann, Nicholas Sodemann (Jane Harner); his grandchildren Jade Sodemann, Kai Sodemann, Mia Sodemann, Judah Lefton, Wilson Sodemann, Marigold (Goldie) Lefton, Poppy Lefton, Sydney Beckman, Kathryn (Kate) Beckman; siblings Stephen Beckman (Karen), Richard (Cynny Scott). Ken was preceded in death by his first spouse Pamela (Booth).

Ken graduated from Northwestern University and went on to earn his medical degree from Chicago Medical School. He practiced family medicine for many years, caring for patients across all stages of life - from delivering babies to serving residents in nursing homes. Later, Ken earned his MBA and built a career as a physician executive. His work included managed care, consulting, leadership roles, and ultimately serving as chief medical officer of a healthcare company.

Ken was involved in the Boy Scouts of America for most of his life. He earned his Eagle Scout and later served as Cubmaster and Scoutmaster for his son Zack. Ken gave his time as a commissioner, supporting fellow leaders and strengthening the scouting community. He also enjoyed collecting international Boy Scout stamps and books.

Ken was a lifelong collector of 19th-century medical antiques. Before his death, he donated his entire collection to Froedtert Hospital and the Medical College of Wisconsin, ensuring that others could learn from and appreciate the artifacts he had so carefully preserved.

Ken also found great meaning in giving his time during retirement, volunteering with many organizations in service to his community. One of his favorites was the Delafield Lions Club, where he served as president and later as treasurer. In 2026, he was awarded the Melvin Jones Fellowship, the highest form of recognition from the Lions Clubs International Foundation.

After Ken and Marilyn retired, they shared a love of travel and set out to see the world together. Over the course of ten years, they visited 29 U.S. national parks, traveled to more than 30 countries, and reached all seven continents. While traveling, they found camaraderie with many of their fellow travelers that became lifelong friends.

Ken took great delight in his role as grandfather. He enjoyed taking the grandkids on family vacations, attending their music concerts or sporting events, and especially having the grandkids at his home where they played games and swam in the pool with him.

In lieu of flowers, memorials to the Delafield Lions Club are welcome.

A celebration of life will take place on Sunday September 20th, 2026 at Pagenkopf Funeral Home (New Location: 2228 N. Silver Maple Lane, Oconomowoc, WI 53066) from 1:00pm – 3:00pm.

Please join the family after the service at ID Restaurant 415 Genesee Street Delafield, WI 53018 for a light meal and conversation.