Ben Beaird Obituary

Ben E. Beaird, Sr.
Ben E. Beaird, Sr.; age 96; of LaGrange Park, IL passed away peacefully on December 16, 2021. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 65 years Bettye. He is survived by sons Ben Jr. (CeCe) and Brian W. (Deb) Beaird; grandchildren Briana (Mike) Stover, Ben III (Katie) Beaird, Christina (Brian) Barreda, and Brian P. (Lauren) Beaird; and great-grandchildren Gavin, Emerson, and Logan Beaird; Maxwell and Margaret Stover; Tyler and Andres Barreda and Jackson Beaird; brother Harold (Rosemary) Beaird; and nephew David (Lisa) Beaird.
After serving as a pilot in the US Air Force during WWII, Ben graduated in Mechanical Engineering from Southern Methodist University. He then worked his entire career for CPC International, moving his family from Texas to Kansas City to Illinois. A consummate family man, talented engineer, and avid aviator, Ben designed, built, and flew many RC model airplanes and boats throughout his life, and was an active member of the Palos RC Flying Club. His example also inspired his sons and others to become engineers and build and fly their own full-scale aircraft.
The family plans a small celebration after the first of the year. In lieu of flowers, memorials to the First United Methodist Church of LaGrange, 100 W. Cossitt Ave., La Grange, IL 60525 or to the Community Nurse Health Association, Pillars Community Health, c/o Philanthropy, 23 Calendar Ave., La Grange, IL 60525 are appreciated.
Arrangements entrusted to Hallowell & James Funeral Home, Countryside at 708-352-6500 or HJFunerals.com.