Craig W. Beckheyer

Craig W. Beckheyer achieved the California Dream on his own terms. Born in rural Riverside County during the Great Depression, he helped his family raise chickens, among other duties, on their modest farm. He went on from there to a rewarding and fulfilling life as, in essence, a multi-faceted, self-made man in the Golden State. Craig, who passed away at age 88 due to an illness on Dec. 6, with his loving family by his side at his home in Hillsborough, became a successful businessman who owned and operated a thriving Farmers Insurance territory for decades. But he was much more than that. Craig was a devoted husband, a father, a grandfather, a craftsman, a writer, a gardener, a public speaker, a world traveler, a lover of pugs, a student of history, even an avid partner in the raising of honeybees in secure hives in his spacious backyard. He loved baseball, with an emphasis on the Cardinals and the Giants. As a Southern California native, he doted on the football mystique of the USC Trojans and well-remembered the bygone days of the old single-wing formation.

Craig was highly organized, meticulous and utterly rational in all matters, whether political, financial or societal. He was loyal to his family, friends, neighbors and associates. He was a mentor to many. His sage advice and sound counsel were highly valued. His influence touched countless individuals. He loved a party and hosted dozens at his welcoming home in the Peninsula hills. Although he did not finish college with a degree, he was a life-long learner and voracious reader. His personal library was extensive. His range of knowledge was stunning. He had particular interests in the histories of World War II and the heyday of the British Empire and its legendary worldwide naval and military operations. He is dearly missed.