James Henry Beeks, of English descent, was born in Lee County, Iowa. Dec. 19th, to Samuel Nelson & Hannah Beal Beeks in 1853, and died at Goldendale, Wash., Sept. 18th 1922, thus having experienced 69 years, 5 months and 20 days of this earth's life.
He came with his father to Klickitat county in 1876 and was always a hard working man.
He was married to Miss Mary Hearn in Pleaseant Valley, April 24, 1878. To this union were born fifteen children. Besides the widow, Mrs. Mary E. Beeks, eleven of the children survive as well as twenty-three living grandchildren. One brother, William Beeks, age eighty-six, also survives.
The children who passed away before his death are Nelson, Nora, Edith and Marie. Those living are: Mrs. Cora Stewart of Portland; Mrs. Louella Miller, of Goldendale; Mrs. Dora De Haven, of the Dalles; Raleigh, Samuel, Dewey and William Augustas, of Sundale. Mrs. Bertha Edwards of Condon, Oregon; Mrs Blanche Fuhrman, of Goodnoe; Mrs. May Gallarda, of Chowchilla, Calif.; and Mrs, Etta Collins, Seattle.
Brother and Sister Beeks have reared a remarkable family. They are all substantial and industrious citizens, and at all times, have enjoyed peace, good will and natural affection amoung themselves.
Brother Beeks was born again in the year of 1881, being baptized by Evangelist Roberson at a meeting in Pleasant Valley. He wore the Christian armor fourtyone years. he stood firm, he never faltered, he never turned back. He contended earnestly, but kindly for the Faith once delivered. He loved dearly the Church that Christ built and gave himself for it. His course is finished.
J. H. Beeks was an extraordinary man, both in the church and community where he lived. He had a strong personalty, eveyrone enjoyed his company. He had courage and convictions. Those who did not agree with him respected him as fully as those who did. His death is a loss that will be felt by many.
But hope sees a star, and those who would be wise men will follow that star until it leads them to the place where our brother is in the arms of Jesus.