Donley Beach

Donley S. Beach was born on November 14, 1938 to Carl and Myrtie (Coffman) Beach. Don spent most of his youth in Conrad except for a year in Oregon with his Uncle Sherman. He worked at ranches and farms before joining the US Marine Corp at the age of 20. Don was honorably discharged after basic training. The service never called him to go back. Don always said he would go if called to serve at any time in his life.

After returning to Conrad, Don met Darlene M. Porter in 1967. In January 1968 they were married and were together for 52 years before her death. They had four children, Lester (Anna), Francine, Heidi (Bob Bleeker), and James Beach.

Don worked at COD Laundry, GTA Elevator, and finally for the City of Shelby as parks, maintenance, and garbageman. He retired after 28 years with the city.

In his retirement, he did lawn and yard care with his brother, Fred.

Don beat lung cancer in 2009 but unfortunately it came back with a vengeance. On June 6, 2025 he succumbed to cancer.

He enjoyed helping with the Veterans of Foreign Wars and American Legion. Even though he himself was not a long-serving man, Don was a very proud American.

He loved walking with his dog, Buddy, and his brother, Fred. He enjoyed reading, Word Find Puzzles, camping, spending time with family and hunting gophers with Fred.

Don is preceded in death by his wife, Darlene; daughter, Francine; mother, Myrtie; father, Carl; and two brothers, Albert and Lester; aunts and uncles; grandparents on both sides.

He will be truly missed.

Graveside services with military honors will be Friday, June 20, at 10:00am at Valley View Cemetery.