Obituary of Robert T. Beckwith

Robert Thomas Beckwith, 91, of Baldwin NY, passed away on February 4th 2024, after succumbing to 9/11 related cancer. Bob was born on April 16th 1932 to parents Thomas and Cecilia in Astoria Queens. After Bob graduated from Rice High school in Manhattan in 1952 he joined the NAVY (1952-1956), then went on to study Liberal Arts at LaGuardia College. After graduating, he held various jobs including driving for UPS. In 1964 Bob became an FDNY Firefighter kickstarting a 30 year career with the department. An already extraordinary life was forever altered on September 11th 2001 as Bob became an American symbol of hope and unity after rushing to assist in the rescue effort in the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks on the World Trade Center where he famously stood by the side of President George W. Bush at ground zero. Despite gaining much acclaim following 9/11 he remained a modest and humble man. After leaving the navy in 1956, Bob met Barbara at a picnic. They got married May 11th 1957. Bob and Barbara went on to have 6 children. In 1994 Bob retired and spent his time playing the piano, fishing, watching jeopardy, spending time with his grandchildren, attending their lacrosse games, Irish step dance competitions etc. Barbara recounts going on drives with him where they would get in the car and Bob would say "which way do you want to go Barbara". A man of faith and friendship, Bob attended church every Saturday evening, and breakfast with his friends at a local diner every Wednesday. One of his favorite activities at home was being entertained by his two great grandsons, a smile across his face, giving direction as they put on a show in the den. Bob was predeceased by sons Joseph and Tommy. He is survived by his wife Barbara, daughter Christine, sons Bob, Richard, and Stephen, as well as 10 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren. Mass will be held at St. Christopher on Saturday, February 10th at 11:30. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to St Jude.