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KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- James (JIM) W. Beckstrom, 76, Formally of Escanaba, MI. Recently residing in Kansas City, MO. passed away on November 4, 2026, following an extended hospitalization in Kansas City, MO, where he made his home for well over 30 years.
Jim was born in Minneapolis, MN on August 7, 1950, and was the son of Bill and Betty (Kraus) Beckstrom. He is survived by 3 sons, he shared with former wife, Marilyn Bruntjens of Escanaba: Heath (Kylie) of Diamond, Illinois, Tyler (Janell Knight) of Costa Mesa, California, & Lukas (Kristi McGill) of Kansas City, Missouri. Jim is also survived by step granddaughter, Natalie, 2 young grandsons, Odin & Yul; and his sister, Jane, of Boston. In addition to his parents Jim was preceded in death by his younger brother, Thomas.
Jim grew up in Escanaba, attended St Joseph Catholic School, graduated from Holy Name High School, attended Eastern Michigan University & ultimately graduated from the University of Wisconsin LaCrosse. After college, he owned his own grocery store in Lower Michigan before going on to work for multiple grocery companies in both Detroit, MI and Milwaukee, WI. He concluded his career at Associated Wholesale Grocers (AWG) in Kansas City, KS, retiring after many years as a Senior Meat Buyer there.
Jim was a Kansas City Chiefs fan; he enjoyed the Great Lakes, ships, lighthouses, old cars, golf, bird watching and the history of Delta County. Jim was also interested in WW2 history & traveled to France, even visiting Normandy. A practicing Catholic, Jim enjoyed a recent trip to Rome and Israel, as well. He loved summer drives to Michigan & Wisconsin. He often joined his sister Jane in Door County, WI to enjoy fine meals, conversation and theatre together.
Jim will be remembered for his many interests, but none more than the love he held for his family. He cherished his three sons and always valued being there for them. Jim deeply loved his grandchildren and treasured the many joyful activities & special moments they shared, especially Thursdays with Grandpa.
A Funeral Mass will be held at St Joseph/St Patrick Church on Thursday, November 12, 2026, at 11am with Father Timothy Ferguson officiating. Burial will follow at Holy Cross Cemetery. In lieu of flowers memorials can be directed to the Delta County Historical Society.
The Anderson Funeral Home of Escanaba is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.andersonfuneralhomes.net.
