James Dale Beard!

James (Jim) Dale Beard! 82, of Blue Springs, MO passed away October 23, 2023 at Wilshire at Lakewood after a brief illness.  Cremation is planned with a memorial gathering to be held on Saturday, November 11, 2023 from 1-4:00 pm at Speaks Suburban Chapel, 18020 E. 39^th St, Independence, MO 64055.

Jim was born January 10, 1941 in Ottawa, KS to Royal and Berniece (Paxton) Beard.  Jim grew up in Sugar Creek, MO and graduated from Van Horn High School in 1959.   He worked for several different companies as a mechanical engineer.

 Jim was a kid at heart and enjoyed interacting with children from impersonating Santa Claus to waving or growling at them in restaurants.  He spent many years with the Youth Friends program reading with students weekly at Benton Elementary School.

 Jim was truly passionate about many things in his life, but most of all his children, grandchildren, and his 1940 Ford Business Coupe.  He loved his street rod and the community that it brought to him.  The support and love that surrounded Jim from these friends was incredible.  Please know that Jim’s family recognizes and appreciates the love and joy you brought our Dad.

 Jim is survived by 4 children, Julie Beard, Jim Beard (Kerri), Christina Beard, and Jennifer Cook (Tim), a brother, Tom, 6 grandchildren, James, Kalli, Kyra, Ren, Belies and Jonah, great-nephew, Mik and many nieces and nephews, friends he considered family and ex-spouse, Trudy.

Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.speakschapel.com (Arrangements: Speaks Suburban Chapel (816) 373-3600)