G. Philip Beitz

October 9, 1940 - May 23, 2015

G. Philip Beitz, age 74, of Beaver Dam, died on Saturday, May 23, 2015 at his home surrounded by his family. A memorial service will be held at a later date and cremation has taken place. George Philip Beitz was born on October 9, 1940 to George and Anna (Vatava) Beitz. On November 10, 1990, he was united in marriage with Mary Ann Riggs. He was an avid motorcyclist, putting on thousands of miles traveling to Daytona Bike week and Sturgis motorcycle rallies for many years, as well as throughout the state. Phil was a Civil War Reenactor for over ten years, living the life of a soldier in the 10th Tennessee Infantry, a corporal in the 5th Wisconsin Light Artillery, and finally as a Tennessee Senator. Within the reenacting community, Phil was famous for making sure he “died” in the shade, and when a Senator, his rousing speeches to the troops. One of Phil’s favorite jobs was as an apprentice blacksmith to Dan Nauman at the Bighorn Forge in Cedarburg. After retirement, from 2010 to 2015, Phil became active in the animal rescue community as a transporter for Badger Rescue Animal Transport Services (BRATS) transporting over 1,500 Wisconsin dogs, cats, guinea pigs, and birds. He was a warm, caring, and loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend. His wonderful dry sense of humor will be missed by so many. Survivors include his wife, Mary Ann Riggs of Beaver Dam; daughter, D. Leigh Bach of North Huntingdon, PA; three grandchildren, Alex, Davis and Kaylan; as well as many friends. He was preceded in death by his parents. If desired, memorials in G. Philip Beitz’s name may be made to Badger Rescue Animal Transport Services (BRATS -www.bratstransport.org) or Shelter from the Storm Rescue (http://sftsvolunteers.wix.com/shelterfromthestorm). The Koepsell-Murray Funeral Home in Beaver Dam is caring for the family. To leave online condolences, or for directions and other information, please visit our website at www.KoepsellFH.com.

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Thinking of you, MaryAnn.

It's hard to believe it's been two years since you left us. I think of you every day and am so grateful that you were in my life. I love you so.

Dearest MaryAnn, All of my prayers, thoughts, and condolences on the death of your beloved Phil. He was a great man married to a great woman. I am glad he is at peace! I pray for you comfort and condolences. Much Love, Katie, Saul and Noah - friends

When I walked into the blacksmith shop, Phil always had that endearing smile on his face. That smile also endeared him to our customers, especially the children. His contagious laugh echoed off those stone walls, beckoning those within earshot to join him in conversation. Glancing at you sideways, his warm, grandfatherly eyes would sparkle, and you knew that a good story was about to unfold...or...that he'd been up to some playful mischief at your expense. Because of these rare but lovable qualities, he became more recognizable, and more memorable as "the blacksmith" in the Cedarburg shop to our customers. It was also because he had that amazing quality of making you feel like you were the only person in his life, the only person in the room...even though the place was packed. I hadn't seen nor spoken with him much in his last years, but he illuminates a bright spot in my heart, and he always will.

Phil had a genuine way of accepting people as if they were family. I experienced this when I met Mary Ann and Phil as part of the 10th Tennessee Re-enactors Group. Besides the history, there was fun, laughter, wit, campfires, celebration and kinship. Despite time of distance this connection remained sincere. Phil embraced life as he embraced Mary Ann. Phil entrusted Dennis and myself with a piece of his legacy that will endure the test of time [ a forged candlestick ] I see that twinkle in his eye, love in his heart, and skill at the forge. In many of our travels, Dennis and I rest on the campgrounds of the Hovenweep National Monument. There is a spectacular view of the "Sleeping Ute Mountain from the campground. This 5 by 12 mile mountain range sits at the southwestern corner of Colorado and resembles a Ute Chief lying on his back with his arms folded across his chest. Legend has it that the Ute Chief was a "Great Warrior God" who fell asleep while recovering from wounds recieved in battle with "the Evil Ones". In my heart, I think of Phil as this great warrior in his courageous battle with cancer and now he is at rest. Phil will remain in the hearts of all who knew him. My deepest sympathy to Mary Ann, to his daughter and his grandchildren.

Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.

Phil was a one-of-a-kind, true blue, deeply caring, deeply loving, sensitive, conscious, justice loving, fun loving (who could forget his hearty laugh?), family loving, animal loving, we're-here-to-make-a-difference kind of man. He and MaryAnn were truly made for each other. We are so sorry and sad about his passing from this world. We will miss him, as will so many who had the gift of knowing Phil. Our love to you MaryAnn, and to his daughter and grandchildren.

Who would have guessed that this motorcycle ridin', Jack Daniels drinkin', big bushy beard wearin', hard workin', hard playin' man would have such a soft, compassionate and tender side? All who knew him, humans and animals alike, can vouch for what a special guy he was. Whenever we think of Phil we think of that great big smile and those twinkly eyes. How wonderful that he and MaryAnn found each other; they were truly a perfect match! We are sad that he left too soon, but so glad we had the chance to know this wonderful man. Thinking of you with love, MaryAnn, and our sympathy to Phil's daughter and grandchildren.

Our deepest sympathy is extended to you with Phil's passing. It was a pleasure working with Phil on various committees in Newburg and we have many fond and interesting memories. He was a compassionate man and will be missed.

Phil is by far one of the sweetest human beings I have ever met. It hurts my heart knowing I won't get to see him again but I am forever grateful that I knew him. His smile will definitely be remembered forever.

MaryAnn - I'm so sorry for your loss.

I considered Phil one of my best friends. He will be much missed.

Phil's passing leaves an emptiness in many of our souls...a best friend, fellow re-enactor, and a damn fine man of whom nothing negative can be said. Love to you MaryAnn and my sympathy to Phil's family. Rest in Peace Pard.

MaryAnn, you have my deepest sympathies. Phil was a great person and what a great laugh. He will be sorely missed. On behalf of the Helen Bader School of Social Welfare, I wish you the best. Please take care of yourself.

Phil, you fought a darn good fight for what happened to you. We will never forget your twinkly eyes, how I remember my little niece thought you were Santa Claus! You were so intelligent, and well read, honest, kind and so gentle. My, how we will miss you. Tom and Holly Spaeth

What a great photo pf Phil. It reminds me of his mischievous ways and wry sense of humor. I’m so sorry for your loss Mary Ann. Love you both.

Mary Ann,truly sorry for your loss.He was a great guy and the animals will miss him also.Take care

My deepest sympathy, MaryAnn. May you and Phil's family find comfort and peace in all your happy memories. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

Prayers to you and your family, Phil will be dearly missed by all, Humans and Fur babies he saved

Phil touched the lives of many people and animals. My deepest condolences to you and your family MaryAnn. You are close in my heart.

We here on earth were blessed to have this wonderful man with us. Phil was a delightful "old soul" and a wonderful fellow. MaryAnn, my thoughts are with you.

Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.

It's not too often that a couple comes along, like MaryAnn and Phil. A made-for-each-other, compliment in everyway. I am so sorry for your great loss. I hope you always feel his presence and share your love. A good man's legacy lives on. The world is better because of Phil. My sincerest condolences.

Awe MaryAnn, I am so very sorry for your loss. Phil was an amazing man. Sending prayers and hugs to you. <3

Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.