Gene Wesley Beauchamp of Colusa passed away on January 11, 2023, at the age of 74. He was born on August 14, 1948, to Leonard and Lona Beauchamp.
Gene attended Colusa High School and, following graduation, enlisted in the Army on October 3, 1967. He served three years of active duty and three years in the reserves.
Gene dutifully served in Vietnam, between 1968 – 1969, as a helicopter aircraft mechanic in Troop D (Air), 1st Squadron, 1st Cavalry of the 1st Infantry Division. He trained on several army helicopters and acted as crew chief during his time with the 1st Infantry Division ¼ Calvary.
Gene is one of the nation’s most highly decorated servicemen. He was awarded the Silver Star, two Bronze Stars for valor, a Purple Heart, and fourteen Air Medals.
Following his military service, Gene enrolled at Chico State University but later returned to Colusa, CA and rice farming. He married his wife, Lana, on December 28, 1975 and they raised their family on the family farm and in the very home he grew up in. After retiring from farming, Gene could still be found checking the fields with his loyal dogs by his side, hand out the window, and a smile on his face.
His love for hunting was known by all, but sharing that knowledge was what filled his soul. Although not an avid fisherman, he always looked forward to fishing with his friend and brother-in-law, Phil Mabray.
Gene was an exceptional member of his community and was deeply devoted to his country. He could always be counted on to help others, with no hesitation, and made sure to check in with everyone around him. He was a gifted water douser and helped countless families find wells.
Gene was an active member of the V.F.W. Post 2441 and American Legion Post 218, and could be found serving at fellow veterans’ funerals, carrying the American flag at a parade or local football game, or participating in presentations and ceremonies honoring the military.
Gene never met a stranger and was a one-of-a-kind man; a beloved husband, fantastic father, grandfather, great grandfather, brother, uncle and fearless friend. His unique presence will truly be missed, but he will live on in our hearts through the retelling of his antics and hilarious stories.
Gene is survived by his loving wife of 47 years, Lana Beauchamp; son, Lance (Jeanmarie) Kagehiro of Stockton; daughter, Kimi Baxter of Colusa; granddaughters, Brittani (Aaron) Moore, Kaitlyn Kagehiro, Meghan Kagehiro; great grandson, Quincy Moore; brother, Phil Beauchamp; in-laws, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends too numerous to count.
He is preceded in death by his parents; Leonard and Lona, brothers, Leo and Allen.
A celebration of life will be held at the Colusa Veterans Hall on Sunday, February 5, 2023, at 2 PM.
Gene will be laid to rest at Arlington National Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made in Gene’s name to: V.F.W. Post 2441, P.O. Box 1354, Colusa, CA 95932. Or to the American Legion Vernon Jewel Danley Post 218, P.O. Box 665 Maxwell, CA 95955, or to a charity of your choice. â–
PUBLISHED 01/26/2023 • COLUSA COUNTY PIONEER REVIEW #2023-0036