Gerald Beals

Gerald Eugene Beals, 88, was born in Quincy, KS on October 1, 1934. Shortly after his birth his family moved to Wichita where he was raised. He passed away May 11, 2023 in Wichita, KS. 

He graduated from Wichita High School East in May 1953, and later that year he enlisted into the Marine Corp.  He was stationed at Camp Pendleton in San Diego, CA , where he completed basic and combat training. Before he was shipped over to Korea, Hollywood came calling to Camp Pendleton to film the movie Battle Cry with his division.  Once he arrived in Korea, he was in the 1st Marine Division Recon.  Where he spent most of his time in North Korea well into enemy territory.  After he returned to Camp Pendleton he went through Under Water Demolition.   He served 3 active and 5 inactive years of service with the Marines.  He was very proud to be a Marine and would fly the American and Marine Corp flags at the house.

On Gerald's flight home to get married, his plane flew through the turbulence of the May 1955 Udall tornado.  That flight is the reason Gerald would never fly again. He said he would rather be back in Korea than fly in a plane.  Once back in Wichita, Gerald and Mary went to the courthouse to get their marriage license only to find out Gerald's mom would have to sign for him to get married since he was not 21.  Here he enlisted in the Marines, fought in Korea but had to have his mother's permission to get married.

 On June 12, 1955, Gerald married Mary Lee Drum.  They were married for 68 years. They moved to Laguna Beach, CA for Gerald to finish his active service.  After his active service was completed on December 3, 1956, they returned to Wichita, where he attended Barber College.  He received his apprentice license and a year and a half later achieved Kansas State Master Barber license.  He was a barber for 61 years when he retired. He owned the Triangle Barber and Style Shop for 49 years at the corner of Central and Edgemoor.  Gerald loved visiting with his customers about the events in their lives and his.

Gerald was active in his kids lives as they were growing up and encouraging them in their endeavors. When Steve and Tim were in Boy Scouts, Gerald was there, helping many boys earn their badges and teaching them how to camp and survival skills.  After Steve and Tim were out of Scouts, Gerald continued as an District Commissioner to help start troops in many parts of Quivera Council.   Gerald and Mary were also youth sponsors, along with other adults at Hillside Christian Church, which were times that they both enjoyed.  Gerald was an active member of the Double Ring Sunday School Class for 27 years here at First United Methodist Church.  He loved bowling and playing cards with the barber group.

He was loved by his family and friends and will be deeply missed.

He is survived by his wife Mary, children; Steven (Deb), and Tim Beals, and Melissa Saunders. His Grandchildren Kayla (Josh) Booker, Bryce Saunders, Nathan, Jason (Sarah), and Ryan Beals.

A memorial has been established with:

First United Methodist Church TV Ministry

330 N. Broadway St.

Wichita, KS 67202