Alan Robey Beebe, 85, of Grover, N.C., died March 6, 2010, in Punta Gorda, Fla., from complications related to a stroke.

Born on May 30, 1924, in Forreston, Ill., Mr. Beebe was the son of the late Harry and Vada Hartsough Beebe. He served during World War II in the 1st Ballatlion, 415th Regiment, 104th (Timberwolf) Division and was a recipient of the Purple Heart. He was a lifetime member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, Post 3447, in Gaffney.

In 1949, he completed a B.S. degree with a major in History at Kalamazoo College in Michigan and worked for 11 years at Sears, Roebuck and Company. He then became a teacher at Delton Kellogg Schools in Delton, Mich., where he taught until he retired. He taught History and Public Speaking and was the debate coach, speech coach and tennis coach for the high school. He was an Eagle Scout, a Scout leader, avid reader and loved gardening and outdoor activities.

Mr. Beebe is survived by his wife of 12 years, Vinnie Roark Beebe; son and daughter-in-law, Scott Beebe and Sigrid Peisker; daughter and son-in-law, Carlie and Ray Merritt; son and daughter-in-law, Geoffrey Beebe and Cindy Merwin; daughter and son-inlaw, Wendy and Lloyd Greer; step daughter and step son-in-law, Anita and Jake Ross; step son and step daughter-in-law, Billy and Betty Upchurch Roark; eight grandchildren; four step-grandchildren; and seven step greatgrandchildren. The oldest of four siblings, he is also survived by his brother and sisters-in-law, Harley and Helen Beebe, Burl and Jackie Beebe; and sister, Betty Ann Leeke.

A memorial will be held Friday, March 12, at 10 a.m. at the Park Hills County Center, Park Hills Park, 10101 Burnt Store Road, Punta Gorda, Fla.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Veterans of Foreign Wars, Post 3445, Buddy Poppy Fund, P.O. Box 746, Gaffney, S.C. 29340.

Arrangements were made in Port Charlotte, Fla.