Obituary of Elwood W. Beckwith

Elwood W. Beckwith, 86, of State College, died Wednesday, October 19, 2016, at Juniper Village at Brookline, State College. Born December 30, 1929, in Warren, he was the son of the late Ernest G. and Ruth Weiler Beckwith. He is survived by his wife Margy and sons, Tobias L. Beckwith of San Francisco, and Timothy Jay Beckwith of State College. Also by his Godson, Troy L. Paules, of Chicago IL. Elwood was preceded in death by his sisters, Doris Stuart, Marian Huck and Jean Cobleigh. He was a graduate of Warren Area High School, where his father was a much loved Physics and Chemistry Teacher. He earned a Bachelor's degree in 1951 from Washington and Jefferson College in English Literature. Elwood served in the United States Navy during the Korean Conflict. After which he worked 6 years for the S. S. Kresge Company. Followed by 20 years as a Personnel Director of Sylvania Electric Company plants in Warren, York, and Muncy. Next he began a new career as owner and proprietor of Beckwith's Yarn, Arts & Craft Supplies, with stores in Montgomery and Lewisburg PA. Upon retirement from his stores he spent approximately 15 years touring the craft show circuit as a basket maker, selling his baskets at the Penn State Arts Festival and the Peoples Choice Festival, among others. Services will be private at the convenience of the family. To honor his life, friends can pass on his kindness by helping someone in his name. Memorial contributions may be made to the Southern Poverty Law Center by visiting https://donate.splcenter.org . Arrangements are under the care of Koch Funeral Home, State College. Online condolences and signing of the guest book may be entered at www.kochfuneralhome.com.