Roy William Beeler died on February 5, 2020. You may not have known him as Roy. If you jammed with him, you knew him as Rue. If you grew up with his kids, you knew him as the Tickle Monster. If you were his grandkid, you called him Pappy. As his daughters, we simply called him Dad.
The Tickle Monster is survived by two children and their families. His eldest daughter Jennifer Havens resides in Hemet, CA with her husband, Travis, and children William, Anna Mae, and Gabby. His youngest daughter, Katie Atcheson, resides in Lee’s Summit, MO with her husband, Chad, and step-daughter Violet.
Rue lived for music, blues specifically. Despite the sometimes-melancholy subject matter, he lit up when playing his guitar and singing the blues. He donated his time, talent, and equipment to seniors in need of cheer, kids with a passion for guitar, and fellow musicians looking to grow their craft.
When he wasn’t jamming, Pappy felt the most at home on his farm or in the quiet of his deer stand. An avid hunter, he lived in his camouflage gear in and out of the woods.
Although he’d undergone intense treatment for Multiple Myeloma, his physical health had improved. Unfortunately, his lifelong struggle with depression did not. Many will speculate why Dad took his own life, but we know there is no logic in such pain and darkness. Just as there is no shame in seeking treatment for illness, mental or physical, there is no blame for those left behind.
A celebration of life in his honor will be held in the Kansas City area on what would have been his 68th birthday - June 13, 2020. Details to follow via word of mouth and social media.
