Brent Beekman, 69, of Bradenton, Florida, passed away on Saturday July 26th 2025.

Brent was born in Indianapolis, IN on April 3rd, 1956, to James Alfred Beekman and Janet Elizabeth Turner, both of whom preceded him in death. Brent is survived by his son, Jason Beekman, his daughter, Haley (Jesse) Smolinski, granddaughter, Piper and his sisters, Lindsey (Gary) Grimmer and Leslie (Forest) Swyden.

Brent was an avid adventure seeker, a Veteran police officer, a successful business owner and most importantly, an adored father and friend. He was well known for his humor and quick wit. He was a lifelong learner with vast interests that ranged from Martial Arts, golfing and riding his Harley, to reading and playing card games. As a young man, Brent was an exceptional athlete who competed in many elite events over the years such as Iron Man races and at least ten Marathons.

He lived the majority of his adult life in Rockford, IL where he worked in law enforcement and then went on to own multiple businesses. He moved to Florida in 2016 where he was welcomed by a close-knit community and made great friends. He loved nothing more than relaxing with a cigar or treating himself to a smoothie from Smoothie King.

Brent was a protector by nature and an all-around wonderful man who made everyone feel at ease around him. He was multitalented, intelligent and charismatic.  Brent was always the funniest person in the room, and he will be greatly missed by everyone who had the immense honor of getting to know him.

A visitation and memorial service will be held at Belvidere Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Belvidere, IL on Saturday August 9th. The visitation will begin at 10:00 AM, immediately followed by the service at 11:00 AM.  A memorial fund has been established in the family’s name.

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