Charles "Steve" Beard

Charles "Steve" Beard, age 78, passed away peacefully after a courageous battle with cancer, surrounded by his loving wife Christine and his beloved pets. Born on December 6, 1945, in Missouri to Charles and Ruby (Webb) Beard, Steve as an only child, was a treasured gift, sharing his birthday with his mother, who always called him her Christmas present.

Steve spent his early childhood on his grandparents' farm, where he gathered many happy memories and learned valuable life lessons from his grandfather. Later, he moved to Farmington, Missouri, to live with his mother and attended Farmington High School, graduating with the class of 1963. He went on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry, Math and Physics from the Missouri University of Science and Technology (formerly the Missouri School of Mines) in the class of 1968.

Drafted into the Army while studying for his Master's degree, Steve was stationed in Albuquerque, New Mexico, where he remained after his service due to his love for the mountains and climate. While on a waiting list for advanced training classes, his company commander asked if anyone knew how to type. As the only soldier who had taken a typing class, Steve became the company clerk, which ultimately led to a different career path than he had anticipated.

Steve's professional journey started with working in a chemistry lab after his Army stint. That was also when he began to pursue his desire to race Corvettes which he did for several years. His love for technology led him to a local computer store, where he started working to learn about computers. This eventually enabled him to form a small computer company and later work independently, assessing business computer needs, assembling computers, and networking. He also taught himself web design, always seeking to expand his knowledge and skills.

Throughout his life, Steve nurtured a passion for health and fitness, racing cars, technology, traveling, investing, and science fiction. He was self-employed in the IT world for over 30 years, starting his first internet site in 1998 and later focusing on producing web video projects for himself and others.

As a remarkable DIY enthusiast, Steve could tackle almost any project with ease. From hanging new light fixtures and installing blinds to laying flooring, building decks and stone patios, landscaping, and refacing a fireplace, he had a unique ability to learn and accomplish tasks by watching videos or reading directions. Christine often felt she had her very own handyman by her side.

Steve met Christine in Albuquerque, where they built their life together before moving to Reno, Nevada, and finally to Wisconsin to be closer to Christine's family. He was always ready to assist her with various home projects, and with his extensive computer knowledge, he was constantly improving and updating both their computers. Christine fondly remembers calling "tech support" from her office, knowing Steve would come running to help her.

An avid outdoor enthusiast, Steve loved hiking, biking, and running marathons in his younger years. He and Christine cherished their hikes in the mountains around Reno and enjoyed many trips to Napa Valley, where Steve happily served as the designated driver for Christine and her sister-in-law, Jody. As they visited winery after winery, Christine and Jody would become increasingly rambunctious, and Steve would delight in their laughter and goofiness, always finding joy in their happiness.

Some highlights of Steve's well-lived life included visiting Hawaii multiple times, witnessing the breathtaking sunrise on Haleakalā, hiking up Diamond Head, enjoying ski trips to Purgatory and Taos, visiting the Very Large Array in New Mexico, traveling to China and hiking on the Great Wall, and participating in the Lake Tahoe half marathon. He also enjoyed hiking in the Grand Canyon and exploring the Sandia Mountains and the mountains around Reno. A curious and knowledgeable man, Steve embraced learning new things every day. He loved listening to web podcasts that featured technology and futuristic research, often dreaming of what the future might hold for humankind. An entrepreneur and a dreamer, he believed in the potential for great discoveries to benefit humanity.

Steve's calm and patient nature made him a cherished husband and friend. He will be deeply missed by Christine, his two dogs, four cats and everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.

Steve had no brothers or sisters but always considered Christine's family as his own. He especially enjoyed and appreciated his brothers in law, Adolf and Mike and sisters in law, Debbie and Jody. A special place in his heart was held by Christopher, Greg and Megan, Marissa and Aaron, Adri and Gabe.

“You may be gone from our sight,But never from our hearts,Your love will be our guiding light,Even when we’re apart.”

A Celebration of Life will be scheduled at a later date.