Paul Michael Beckerle, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away surrounded by family and fortified with the Sacraments of Holy Mother Church on Saturday, March 4, 2023, following a battle with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and lung cancer.
Paul was born to John (“Jack”) Francis and Marjorie (“Micki”) Caroline (nee McNabb) Beckerle on July 16, 1956, in the City of St. Louis. The third of six siblings, Paul graduated from Cleveland High School in 1974. During high school, he worked as a lifeguard, and loved to tell stories of misadventures with his dear friends from back in the day. Paul was a wonderful and thoughtful friend, and loved to say, “you can never have enough friends.” Paul never met a stranger, and from age 6 to 66 he never failed to meet everyone in a crowded room with a, “Hi, Paul Beckerle,” and outstretched hand.
Paul attended the University of Missouri St. Louis, where he attained his bachelor’s degree in Justice Administration (1977) and Master’s degree in Political Science (1979). After graduation, Paul worked for Congressman Dick Gephardt in his Washington, D.C. office, before spending several years with the F.B.I. at the Capitol.
Paul returned to St. Louis in 1983, and in 1985 was elected Alderman of the 25th Ward, which he served for 14 years. Paul was dedicated to public service and was a passionate advocate for the City of St. Louis. Born and raised in the City, after serving as Alderman, Paul acted for 24 years as the Director of the Business Assistance Center of St. Louis Development Corporation. Paul loved his “St. Louis baseball Cardinals” and could often be found joining his brother, Jerry, at the game on weekday afternoons. Paul played with the St. Louis City golf league for decades and loved to play and to watch golf with his sons.
Paul married the love of his life, Robin (nee Bird), in 1988, and sons Jacob, Matthew, and Gabriel soon followed. Family was everything to Paul, and he loved being a husband, father, and grandfather. He was beloved by his five siblings, Jack, Joan, Jerry, Susan, and Diane, who loved to reminisce about their childhood growing up on Dewey in South City. On most weekends, Paul could be found gathering with some combination of his children, siblings, cousins, nieces, nephews, and dear friends, and was the life of the party.
Paul was passionate about helping others and was constantly thinking of ways to make the lives of others easier. Paul loved to volunteer his time and copious energy to parish and family activities. He was a dedicated member and leader of the St. Raphael the Archangel Men’s Club and worked tirelessly to support the parish and school for many years. He often found himself in charge of events ranging from the St. Raphael School’s homecoming picnic and leading fundraising and volunteer efforts at the St. Louis Mardi Gras festivities, to the emcee of the St. Patrick’s Day Parade float, to the Lenten fish fry and homecoming picnics at Epiphany.
Paul’s Catholic faith was deeply important to him, and he was active in the Church his entire life, including in several TEC (Teens Encountering Christ) retreats, and in the local parishes of St. Joan of Arc, Epiphany, and St. Raphael. He loved music, and spent many years in the St. Louis Archdiocesan choir, and in the choir at St. Raphael. He could usually be persuaded to perform a tune on demand, often by John Denver.
Paul did most things quickly, and always with panache, earning him the well-deserved nickname “Slick” from his friends and family. He was the first phone call of nearly every child, niece, nephew, cousin, or sibling working on a home improvement project, and usually showed up with the part they needed and the advice they’d asked for within minutes of the call. Paul was always ready with a kind word, a helping hand, a thoughtful solution, a joke, or a song. He will be deeply missed by all who were lucky enough to know and love him.
Paul is survived by Robin, his beloved wife of nearly 35 years, son Jacob (Patricia) and granddaughter Clara Jane, son Matthew (Jennifer), and son Gabriel (Grace). Paul is also survived by 5 siblings: Jack (Rose) Beckerle, Joan (Marty) Todt, Jerry Beckerle, Susan (Jack) Windish, and Diane (Kevin) O’Brien, and their families.
Services:
- Visitation 4-8 pm on Friday, March 10, Kutis Funeral Home, 10151 Gravois Rd, St. Louis, MO 63123, and from 9-10 am before services at St. Raphael on Saturday, March 11.
- Memorial service will be held at St. Raphael the Archangel Catholic Church at 10 am on Saturday, March 11, departing for Resurrection Cemetery at 11:15 am.
With a heavy heart, I over my deepest condolences and prayers to the entire Beckerle family.
Jan McGillick and Bruce Bradleyoffer their sincere sad sympathies to the entire extended family, particualrly keeping , Robin, Diane and Jake in our prayers. It was always a joy to encounter Paul and Robin in our community. Don’t loose those smiles!
My deepest condolences to the family. Paul was a great friend. I was President of Men’s Club when he attended his first meeting. He immediately volunteered for every request made that night. He followed me as President after trucking made me unavailable. New member to President in less than 2 years. That’s the Paul I knew. Rest in peace my friend.
Paul and my 66 year old “cousin” relationship was very special. I am thankful to God for that sweet blessing. My condolences to Robin and family, Jackie, Joanie, Jerry, Susie and Diane. I truly am sorry for your loss.
A giant has fallen. My sincerest sympathy to Robin and the family at this very difficult time.
Paul, you fought the good fight, rest in peace now.
Paul was one of a kind and will be sorely missed.
Our deepest sympathy to Robin, Jake Matt and Gabe. Paul was a dear friend and was always willing to help with anything you asked of him. He will be greatly missed.
We are deeply saddened about the passing of Paul (Boss). Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. Paul was an exceptional leader and colleague who made a lasting impact on our team. We will always remember Paul for his kindness and wisdom. Please accept our heartfelt condolences and know that we are here to support you in any way we can.
Sincerely,
The BAC Staff
Paul was one of a kind. Everything Paul did was with a smile. I came home from cancer treatment 9 years ago to the most beautiful flowers from Paul & Robin, it was a wonderful unexpected treat.
Paul will be greatly missed by all who knew him.
Sending lots of love and prayers to the entire family.
God bless Paul and the Beckerle family. I’m glad to have known him the past 9yrs at St Raphael Mens Club. We will miss him on school picnic morning, directing everyone around and making sure everything was perfect. Paul was always in charge of cooking and making sure the kids had Ted Drew’s on field day. Mardi Gras won’t be the same without Paul counting the money and making sure everything ran smoothly. Paul did a lot of good for a lot of people and I’ll miss him.
On behalf of Habitat for Humanity Saint Louis, my/our deepest condolences to Paul’s family, friend and fellow parishioners. He went above and beyond to assist us years ago as we navigated the process to open our second ReStore.
Paul was a Charter member of St. Philip Neri Choir based at St Raphael’s Catholic Church. Dolores reminded us that his nickname was “Refrain Paul.”
We have not fully accepted Paul’s departure. Maybe it will sink in at some point.
As for me, I’m hoping that it will not be in the middle of performing music at his funeral.
Paul, our brother, we will pray for you. Pray for us!!!
Our condolences to Robin, Paul’s children, and the entire Beckerle clan. Paul was one of the “good guys”. He will be missed.
To Robin and the entire Beckerle family,
Please accept my deepest sympathies on the loss of your beloved husband and father.
I met Paul on our very first day working for the FBI (9/10/79) Him, Marilyn Freeh and I were in the same training class and the three of us became fast friends from our first day on. During those FBI years, Paul was our protector and was like a brother to us two naive young girls. Thank God!
We haven’t seen each other in many years but Marilyn and I managed to check in once a year or so for these 40+ years.
After reading the comments above, I’m glad to see that the Paul I knew all those years ago had not changed. Devoted family man, beloved husband and father and grandfather, natural leader, dependable, kind, helpful, great friend, deeply religious, authentic…..last but not least…….great fun. Actually, I would add always a true gentleman.
I will never see anything about the “Miracle on Ice” without thinking of him. The three of us went to our local pub to watch the US play the Russians. In the last few minutes of the game Paul got up on the table (wearing his red white and blue Chuck Taylors!) and led the ENTIRE place into chants of USA USA. As usual, his enthusiasm changed the whole vibe of the place.
May it bring you comfort to know that he made a real difference in this world.
Rest easy in Gods arms my friend.
Paul was my Aunt Ruth’s alderman and she called so often, he recognized her voice on the phone! But he always answered and was always attentive to her concerns. I’m sorry to hear of his passing.
I’m so sad I can’t be there to celebrate Paul’s amazing life with you. He was truly one of a kind. God only takes the best of us too young! All my love and prayers to you, Robin, Jake & Trish, Matt & Jenn, Gabe & Grace. I absolutely hate that your family is going through what we did just 3-1/2 short years ago. Life isn’t fair but Tom and Paul are waiting for us at the Pearly Gates…..Love, Karen.
Prayers are with Robin and his family. ❤️
Karen Garcia
Cleveland Class of 74
My deepest condolences to Robin and the kids. Paul was a classic. My most indelible memory: Paul entering the Epiphany kitchen after choir practice, voice still booming, while we prepped fish fries. God bless you all.
Robin,
My heartfelt condolences on Paul’s passing.
I will remember Paul with that ever present smile and energy that filled a room. I am sorry for your loss and will keep you and your family in my thoughts and prayers.
Wishing your family time to celebrate Paul and peace that comes with memories and time. I went to grade school and high school with Paul. I am sorry for your loss and wish your family peace.
I’ve known Paul since 1970. Over the years of our friendship we had many adventures and learned the life lessons to form us into adults. It always amazed me how no matter where we were, Paul knew somebody.
To say he was a good friend is not enough; he was a beloved friend that I will sorely miss.
Robin, and the whole Beckerle Family;
Paul was one of a kind! He was truly a great person and friend. I mourn your loss and wish you all comfort and peace in your grief. You will be in my prayers and thoughts forever but especially during this difficult time.
With love…
Sorry for your loss, you all will be in our prayers
My heart is breaking for Paul, and the Beckerle family. Living up the street on Dewey and growing up with Paul and the Beckerle clan was always a pleasure. I pray everyone finds comfort in all of the positive memories during this period of grief. I will always remember the good times I had with Paul and his siblings. May he rest in peace for he no longer suffers. Blessings to the family
Our deepest condolences from Linda and I. If I remember the timeline correctly, I’ve known Paul since about 1961 and Miss Schultz kindergarten class at Scruggs School on the south side. I don’t remember Paul without a smile on his face. He will be missed.
I had the pleasure to know Paul as a young boy. We played soccer for Resurrection School. I wasn’t a very good soccer player and spent most of my time on the sidelines. Even at a young age Paul was always a source of encouragement. How is it that a young boy could be so kind and caring towards underachievers? I’ll never forget his kindness towards me. My only regret is that I didn’t have more Paul’s in my life. His life was well lived and a pure blessing to many.
I’m saddened by the loss of Paul. I remember Paul as an involved, conscientious student and classmate.
As an Alderman, Paul welcomed my 5th grade students during an Aldermanic meeting. My students earned money for the fire department to purchase smoke detectors because their funds had runout. Paul graciously welcomed us for our donation.
Always a diplomat and warrior for St. Louis City.
My condolences to Robin and his family for their loss. He will be a great loss to all who knew him.
To Robin and family:
I was deeply saddened by the news of Paul’s passing. You have my sincere sympathy. Paul was a unique person and leader. May he rest in peace.
Paul was one-of-a-kind. A standout for sure. A great husband, dad, and friend. Some of my fondest memories are of his and Robin’s three boys and my son, Joe, being sent on “secret missions” in the neighborhood by Paul during summer evenings, so we adults could chat. As with all conversations with Paul, they were spirited and fun. He was fun, and oh-so devoted to his family, the city and his faith.
May God hold you in the palm of his hand and may the wind be always at your back, my friend. And Robin, Jake, Matt and Gabe — know that you all are in my thoughts and prayers. So very sorry for your loss… Mary
My heartfelt condolences to Jake and the rest of the family. Paul was definitely the sunshine in the room whenever I encountered him. I am so sorry for your loss, but thankful for all the wonderful memories you have.
Our prayers and thoughts are with you
Robin, Jacob, Matthew, Gabe and families, our deepest sympathy for the loss of Paul. May you find peace in the memories you have of him. May God bless you all.
We are so sorry for your family’s loss, may he rest in peace.
The John Vogt Family
We were deeply saddened by this news about Paul’s passing. The world is a little less bright now. Our sincere condolences to Robin and the entire family.
We were deeply saddened by this news about Paul’s passing. The world is a little less bright now. Our sincere condolences to Robin and the entire family.
One of the many ways Paul enhanced our community was his work on the Forest Park master plan. His smile & sense of humor made the work a lot more fun.
My condolences to all of his family & friends.
My heart goes out to the entire Beckerle family. I remember playing softball with Paul in 6th grade at Scruggs school. I don’t know why, but I still have a picture in my mind of him wearing the red sports shoes that were in style at that time. I got to know most of the Beckerle family throughout the years. My brother dated Sue and I met Diane and Jerry during that time.
I will pray for the family during this difficult time. Paul was a great man and a friend to all. I was always glad to run into him and catch up with each other’s lives.
My heartfelt sympathy to his family and many friends. Even in the 70’s we knew Paul would make a difference. He knew everyone and always seemed genuinely happy to see them. I’m so happy to have shared a few years in this world with him.
Robin, Jacob, Matt & Gab,
As you know, your husband and dad will be missed greatly by all of us. I have so many great memories of his smile and words. Again, he will be missed and remembered for many, many years to come.
Don & Sherry Beckerle
I sang with Paul for many years in the St. Louis Archdiocesan Choir. He always had a kind word and will be missed
Paul was a good natured colleague at the Board of Aldermen. He enjoyed life and always had a good laugh. I am so saddened to hear of his death — he was way too young! My condolences to sweet Robin and the family.
Paul was a good man and provided much service to others. My prayers are with your family. Eternal rest grant unto him.
I’m shocked and saddened to hear of Paul’s passing. We rode in a carpool to UMSL together and had such fun. He was the life of any party. My condolences to his family and friends.
Tina (Rak) Bobbish
On behalf of the St. Louis Development Corporation (SLDC) – Minority Business Development Department we offer our deepest condolences to Paul’s family and friends. We were saddened by the news of Paul’s passing. His service to the Business Community will be greatly missed. We will keep Paul’s family in our thoughts and prayers. God Bless
Robin,
Connie and I are sorry to hear of Paul’s passing. However, hearing about your loving family and Paul’s productive and joyful life made us smile. We acknowledge your strength as you move through this difficult time.
Bob Carr
I was saddened to watch the Live Stream of Paul’s funeral but uplifted by Joan, Susan, Jacob, Matt and the comic relief by son actor, Gabe. The Holy Bible (Dedicated Book) Romans 5:10 a favorite of mine-We are not saved by Christs death (Justified to the Faher) but saved by his LIFE. Happy to hear Susan’s verse reading and of course, 1Corinthans15 tells us when- the Resurrection. Paul is with us in spirit till… Love to all the Beckerle family.
Robin and family,
I am so sorry for your loss. Im sure you all suffered through Paul’s illness right along with him.
Now, as you honor his memory… rest, love each other, and know that only God can turn a curse into blessing.
“Weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning” Psalm 30.
I came to know Paul in high school (class of 75) . Just a small snippet about him I will never forget and probably most do not know. I worked at Nettie’s for several years including those high school years . Every once in a while he would stop in and buy a bunch of daisies – about 25 to a bunch . I asked him once what he did with them and he said he liked handing them out to folks he met on the street just to put a smile on their face . Even in his teenage years he liked doing for others . I am happy I was able to know him. As a widow myself , my deepest sympathies go out to Robin and the rest of the family. May the memories of him bring you peace and strength .
My deepest condolences to Robin and the Beckerle family.
Paul was truly one of those individuals you could always count on as a friend, even if that friendship started over fifty years ago (in high school), and even though separated by time and distance, remained one of “us!” Our sincere condolences to Robin and family.
I served with Paul on the Forest Park Master Plan committee in 1995-96. He was so passionate especially about golf in Forest Park. His contributions made a big impact on the renovation of Forest Park, a jewel in our community. His strong opinions and willingness to speak his mind made it easier for others to speak up and debate the merits of whatever proposal was on the table. I am sad knowing he is no longer among us. Sincere condolences to his family and friends.