David Beardsley

David Beardsley, born on December 29, 1958, in Omaha, Nebraska, he grew up with a heart full of dreams and a passion for the open skies. He was the son of Robert and Beverly (Steele) Beardsley.

David’s journey began right after high school when he rolled up his sleeves to work on a cattle ranch outside Hastings, Nebraska. The love for hard work ran deep in his veins as he transitioned into the world of trucking shortly after. His driving career took off with garbage trucks before he graduated to box trucks, finally landing a solid gig as an 18-wheel driver for Menards, where he dedicated over 18 years of his life behind the wheel, ultimately retiring in February 2025.

Alongside his incredible driving journey, David found joy in the simple pleasures of life — he was a horse lover, enjoying life on his acreage with his beloved wife, Ruth. Their farm was filled with horses, dogs, and cats, and plenty of love.

David was a proud father, having shared three children with his previous wife, Julee Rix, until their divorce. David and Ruth met in 1988, he became a father to her two children, and then they married in 2014.

David, a true son of the road and a connoisseur of country life, passed on March 15, 2025, at Myrtue Medical Center in Harlan, Iowa, unexpectedly. He was preceded in death by his mother and father, Robert and Beverly (Steele) Beardsley.

He leaves behind his cherished wife, Ruth Hedlund-Beardsley of Shelby, IA, and his children: Sandy Hedlund of Tabor, IA; David Beardsley Jr. of St. Joseph, MO; Jeff (Alison) Beardsley of Omaha, NE; Steven (Melissa) Hedlund of Gillette, WY; Danny Beardsley of Council Bluffs, IA. His legacy continues through his 12 grandchildren: Andrew Craig Tucker, Billy, Cameron, Jazmine, Devin, Jordan, Dylan, Jocelyn, Skyler, Juleeanna; and 3 great-grandchildren: Avalon, Aslan, Oaklynn. David is also survived by his nephew, JR Murray, and his sister, Sharon Murray of Omaha, NE.

So here’s to you, David. You’ve driven your last mile, but your stories and laughter will forever live on in the hearts of those you loved. Safe travels, partner.