In Memoriam: Jeff Beesley
Submitted by Gerald Voigt,
Class of 1974

I am very sad to report that last week Wednesday on the 11th day of April, 2007, that Jeff Beesley, a member of the graduating class of 1974 has succumbed to cancer. Some may not remember him well.

Jeff did not grow up his whole life in Garden City. When I moved to Garden City in the middle of our junior year you can imagine how nervous I was, not knowing a soul. Jeff Beesley was the very first to come to me with a big smile and firm handshake to welcome me to the school. He must have seen something in me that he liked, because his friendliness never let up and we became the best of buds. He was the very first friend I made in Garden City. I am sure that those of you that do remember him, would have a similar story about his constant good will and wit.

(He loved puns!) Before coming to Garden City Jeff lived with his family in Belgium. One day when an assembly was called, the school showed some Three Stooges Shorts. Jeff had never seen them before and I remember how hard he laughed! He made something old and tired new for me!

Jeff leaves behind his beloved wife Laurie, and his children Kristen and Ryan. There was no wake or showing, but simply a Mass held for him on Monday the 16th of April At The Church of St. Peter Chanel, R.C. in Roswell, GA.

I was fortunate enough to call his home the day before he passed away from us. His wife told me that she would hold the phone to his ear, and let me know if he blinked. When she said "It's Gerry Voigt" I was thrilled when he uttered a sound of acknowledgment. I was lucky. I got to say 'good bye' and 'I love you' to someone who made my life better. Another classmate of ours, Jeff Drake, flew immediately to Atlanta when he received word that he was drawing his last breaths.

Jeff Drake was there for all of the graduates of Garden City Senior High Class of 1974.

Jeff leaves behind his loving wife Laurie and their 2 children Kristen and Ryan.

Regardless of our personal beliefs, I would like to ask everyone to say a short prayer, think a good thought, or just spend a moment in silence in remembrance of Jeff and other mates that have gone before us.

Good bye Jeff ... you will be missed.