Maynard Kenneth Beckman, Jr., age 85, passed away December 24, 2025, in Murphy, Texas.  He was born on April 30, 1940, in Elmira, New York, to his loving parents Maynard Kenneth Beckman, Sr., and Mary Ann (Strozinski) Beckman, where his curiosity and love for how things worked began at an early age. 

Maynard went on to earn both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in aviation and mechanical engineering from the University of Notre Dame, laying the foundation for a remarkable career marked by innovation and dedication. He spent 20 years at Xerox as a department head, where his leadership and inventive mind led to the awarding of five patents. Maynard later continued his engineering career with Abbott Laboratories for another 20 years, contributing to the development of blood analysis machinery and earning three additional patents.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Maynard was a true builder at heart. He found great joy in constructing hot rods and dragsters and could often be found meticulously building model rockets, a pastime that reflected his lifelong dream of becoming an astronaut. He valued time spent with his family above all else and was most content when surrounded by those he loved. In his quieter moments, he enjoyed watching sports and was a devoted fan of the Dallas Cowboys and the New England Patriots.

Maynard is survived by his son, Eric Beckman and wife Deborah and granddaughter, Kayla Beckman, all of Wylie, Texas; daughter-in-law, Lisa Beckman, also of Wylie, Texas; sister, Gail Morgan of Irving, Texas; and a host of extended family members and friends, who will miss him dearly and forever cherish his memory.

Maynard was preceded in death by his parents, Maynard and Mary Beckman, beloved wife, Theresa Beckman, son, Joel Kenneth Beckman, and sister, Joan Rose Shaw.

In honor of Maynard’s memory, the family requests donations be made to the Wounded Warrior Project (link HERE).

Following the service at the church, friends and family will have an opportunity at the cemetery to offer eulogies and share memories of Mr. Beckman after his urn is placed in the niche.