Clinton Beckett Obituary

Clinton Richard Beckett

It is with heavy hearts that the Beckett Family announces the passing of Dr. Clinton Richard "Dick" Beckett, 88, on Friday, Oct. 20, 2023, from complications of a stroke.

He was a beloved husband, father, friend, mentor, and community leader to many and will be deeply missed by all who knew him. As a family, we will cherish the memories of Dick's impromptu office visits, his love for the Buckeyes and Cincinnati Reds, playing cards, golf, and Dietsch Brothers ice cream.

Dick was born in 1935 in Lebanon, Ohio, to Clifford and Rebecca Beckett. He grew up on the family farm where the local veterinarian encouraged him to attend The Ohio State University in 1953. He graduated in 1960 with a Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine and then served four years in U.S. Army. In 1961, he married Linda Lu Derr from Kenton. In 1964, Dick and Linda moved to Findlay to raise their four children and start a veterinarian practice. His one-man practice grew to six locations, 20 veterinarians, and 120 employees.

Dr. Beckett loved his community and served Findlay compassionately. He gave his time generously on many boards and was instrumental in developing Humane Society of Hancock County. He loved his profession and encouraged many to explore a career in animal sciences. In 1985, he served on The University of Findlay Board of Trustees and as Chairman from 2002-2015. During his tenure, he initiated the pre-veterinary medicine program and University Equine Veterinary Services, Inc. The University of Findlay recognized his leadership in 1994 as a Distinguished Associate and Honorary Doctorate of Entrepreneurial Business Development in 1996. In 2002, The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine awarded him as an "Distinguished Alumnus." In 2015, the Ohio Foundation of Independent Colleges honored him with Earl F. Morris Trustee Award.

He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Linda (Derr) Beckett; four children; eight grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren. They include son, Tod Beckett, DVM (Mary Beckett), grandson, Travis Beckett (Daniela Beckett), great-grandson, Preston and great-granddaughter, Sofia; grandson, Ben Beckett; granddaughter, Maxine; daughter, Kelli Hatfield (Bud Hatfield); daughter, Jill Beckett-Hill (Adam Hill), grandson, Samuel and granddaughter Sydney; son, Matt Beckett (Jamie Beckett), granddaughters, Gray and Ryan, and grandson, Cole.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Columbus Humane Society or Humane Society SPCA of Hancock County.