‘The best dad’: John Beckendorf has delivered time and time again for his loved ones and friends

John Beckendorf might not say much, but he is a man of action and always seems to do the right thing. A hard-working plumber and caring father, John has given everything in the name of serving his family, and his generous spirit shines through when it comes to giving his time, energy or attention.

For over 40 years, John has worked hard as a plumber, first in the union and later running his own business. Yet, as consistent and reliable as he was in his day-to-day job, John was even more steady as a husband and father who always showed up for his family.

That often meant catching all his kids’ sporting events and activities, but also supporting or helping them in every other way, big or small. If Jason, Joseph, Joshua or Stephanie were ever stranded or in a pinch, they always knew exactly who to call, which is as true today as it was when they were kids.

“It didn’t matter if it was 9:30 or 10 at night, he would drop everything at the drop of a hat to come help us,” Jason said. “He would always work his 7-5 or 9-5, get his hours in as a plumber, then he would go to our events, and there was never any complaining.

“It could also be from a financial standpoint. Josh and Steph both lived in my parents’ basement for multiple years in order to save up money for a house. He’s just always there for us when we need him.”

While John is still happy to play that role, he is much more focused now on making memories with his children and grandchildren Shiloh, Marley, Natalie, Juliette, Benjamin, Beckett, Declan and Kaylena. He loves nothing more now than joint vacations and experiences that can bring the whole gang together.

The list includes trips to Yellowstone Park and the Wisconsin Dells when they were kids and now as adults annual Minnesota Vikings road trips, Playa Del Carmen in Mexico, Minnesota Golden Gophers games and and an upcoming boys trip to Chicago.

John makes it easy for everyone to participate because those events are much more about togetherness than the events themselves.

John is committed to his family in brand new ways today as a husband, father and “Grampy,” and his efforts absolutely do not go unnoticed. They have made a difference in his children’s lives and are shaping the Beckendorf family for generations to come.

It’s one of the many reasons that loving, appreciating and respecting him are so easy. John’s children couldn’t wait to express it this Father’s Day.

“Dad, you have given me the best things in life, your time, your care, and your love,” Joshua said. “Thank you for acting like a kid when I was a kid, acting like a friend when I needed a friend, and acting like a parent when I needed one. Although time and distance now separate us, your guidance, advice, and love continues to guide me through life. I would not be who I am today without you. You are the best man I know. Thank you for everything you have done for our family. We love you with all our hearts.”

“Dad means the world to me because he’s always believed in me,” Joseph said. “He’s taught me all the necessary tools to succeed at life, to be a good person and to get back up when I fail. The only thing he’s ever asked for from his kids is to do their best. He uses his goofiness and generosity to make sure everyone around him is happy and having a good time and has always put others first. He’s hands down the best dad anyone could ever have.”

“Some people don’t believe in heroes, but they haven’t met my dad,” Stephanie said. “He would move mountains for anyone he loves, especially his kids and grandkids. His love for his family is so immense and the foundation for this family. He will forever be my first love, and my biggest hero. I would be remiss not to mention how I love how he doesn’t even need to say it out loud that I’m his favorite child.”

“He never told me how to live my life,” Jason said. “He showed me, and I watched and learned. He became the role model that I looked up to and aspired to be like. He helped me create my dreams and goals, and showed me the path on how to accomplish them. And I am forever grateful for him shaping me into the man I have become. I will always be thankful for my extraordinary dad, and I will always love him.

“The greatest compliment I can receive is, ‘You remind me of your father.’”