Roland Glen Beckering, of Edgerton, Minn., passed away on Nov. 26, 2013, at the age of 81 years, four months, and 27 days, after a reoccurrence of cancer. He was born to Dr. Gerrit and Martha Ritsema Beckering on June 29, 1932, in Chicago. In 1932, he was baptized. In the summer of 1936, the family moved to Edgerton, Minn. In the years following, his two sisters, Deanna and Barbara, were born. Roland attended Edgerton Christian Elementary School and graduated from Edgerton High School in 1950. Continuing his education, he attended St. Olaf College. While attending St. Olaf, he met his future wife, Sandra Berge ’54. They both graduated in 1954, earning bachelor’s degrees. Upon graduation, Roland and Sandy were married on June 29, 1954, in Roseau, Minn., Sandy’s hometown. After a short honeymoon, they both attended Northwestern University Medical School in Chicago. Upon completing his studies, Roland earned his medical degree, and Sandy completed the course in Medical Technology. Roland interned at St. Luke’s Hospital, in Duluth, Minn., from 1958-1959. He joined the Public Health service and was stationed, at his request, in Bethel, Alaska from 1959-1961. In August of 1961, returning to Edgerton, he joined his father, Dr. Gerrit Beckering, forming the Beckering Medical Clinic. This partnership continued until Gerrit’s death in 1972. Four children joined the family during these years: Debra Beckering King ’77, Dale Robert, David Bruce, and Douglas Scot.

Roland enjoyed bowling, hunting, and fishing. He went on many trips while doing these activities and looked forward to fishing season every year, along with the annual fly-in fishing trip in Canada. He treasured the company of his children, grandchildren, nephews, and nieces on trips to “the lake” in the summer and on the annual fishing trip. He passed on his love of the outdoors to his children, who continue to share it with their children.

Roland was a member at Bethel Christian Reformed Church in Edgerton. He was also active in the local medical society and had served as the chief of staff at the Pipestone County Hospital. He has also served as the past president of both the Southwest Minnesota Medical Society and the Southwest Minnesota Academy of Family Practice. He was interested in both school and civic affairs, having held the office of treasurer of the E.C.E.S. foundation and served a total of 26 years as both a city councilman and mayor of Edgerton.

Roland is survived by his wife of 59 years, Sandy; three sons, Dale, Bruce, and Scot; six grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; one sister, Deanna Westby; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Debra; his parents, Gerrit and Martha; and one sister, Barbara Dawson. In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred to Edgerton Christian Elementary School or Southwest Christian High School.