City Mourns Longtime Building Inspector, Former Oak Forest Business Owner

OAK FOREST, IL — A longtime building inspector and former Oak Forest business owner is being remembered for his passion for life, expertise in work, humility and love of family.

Dave Beechy, 65, died June 24 surrounded by family at his Monee home. Beechy served as a building inspector for the City of Oak Forest for nearly two decades, the City said.

" For 15 years, Dave went above and beyond for Oak Forest residents and contractors, always bringing kindness and expertise to every inspection," the City said.

Beechy and his wife Jean also operated All Charged Up Battery Store, 5119 W. 159th St.—"a place he built with pride," the City said.

In his obituary, Beechy is remembered as a beloved husband of Jean, father to three and grandfather to four. He was brother to three surviving and two late siblings, and uncle to tens of nieces and nephews, the obituary reads.

"Family was the center of his world, and there was nothing more important to him than spending time with the people he loved, especially his grandchildren," according to his obituary. "Whether it was celebrating holidays, camping, taking family trips, or simply enjoying time together, those were the moments he treasured most."

Beechy was an avid baseball player throughout his youth, and was named All-State at Oak Forest High School in 1979.

He married Jean in 1986. Having started his career as a carpenter, he expanded his skillset to become a general contractor, and together they started By The Book Construction in 1991. He built many custom homes throughout the years, including his first and second home for his family, the obituary reads.

He was passionate about his work as a building inspector with the City.

"He took great pride in his work and was known for his strong work ethic, integrity, and willingness to help others," his obituary reads.

In his free time, he enjoyed woodworking, especially epoxy projects and live-edge wood tables.

"Those who knew him will remember him as someone they could always count on," his obituary reads. "He was reliable, hardworking, humble, and steady. He was the kind of person who showed up, kept his word, and put others before himself.

"His greatest legacy is the family he built and the example he set through a lifetime of love, dedication, and quiet strength. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him."

Visitation is set for Wednesday, July 1 from 3 to 8 p.m., at Lawn Funeral Home, 7732 W. 159th St. in Orland Park. Funeral Thursday at 8:45 a.m., from the funeral home, to St. Stephen Deacon and Martyr Church, 17500 84th Ave. Funeral Mass at 9:30 a.m.

Interment at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery.