Peter Jackson Bearse

Our father, Peter Jackson Bearse, 78 years of age, passed away peacefully in his sleep during the early morning of Friday, January 19, 2024. He was born on June 13th, 1945, in Berwin, Ill. to Loring Runyan Bearse and Catherine Kramer Bearse.

After graduating from Benson Union High School, he joined the Army and served during Vietnam, he attended the University of Arizona, where he studied Art.  After his travels he returned home to Benson to begin his Teaching and Coaching Career.  

During his life he was an avid sports fan, adventurist, Harley enthusiast, artist, and Best Damn Tour Guide (if you ever got the full tour of Tombstone or Bowie you know what we mean). His love of the Benson Community, Teaching and Coaching generations of families was only surpassed by his love for his family and friends.  To know Pete was to love him, bigger than life and an amazing sense of humor, whether he was cussing you out or smiling you always knew he cared.

His departure comes as a great shock and a deep wound is gravely felt by his entire family and countless others who loved him deeply in his wide network of community. The family deeply appreciates your support during this difficult time.

Pete was predeceased by son Timothy Bearse November 11, 1965, son Christopher Bearse October 27th, 2005, Grandson Nicolas Campbell April 10, 2022, Mother Catherine Kramer Bearse September 27,1996, and Father Loring Runyan Bearse Aug. 12, 2012

He is survived by his children, Courtney Smith (Derek), Sarah Bearse, Tracy Coffy (Mike) and Amy Brinsfield. Grandchildren, Isabella Mae Bras, Tatum Smith, Haley Tomcho (Dustin), Vincent Campbell (Desiree), Sister Catherine Abernathy, Sister Sally Bearse, Nephews, Bryan Rodish (Holly) Brandon Rodish (Mari), great nephew and great niece and MANY amazing friends, but also some very special ones, Mark Contrares and Marv Sorenson and his closest friend Ron Barkley.

A Celebration of Life will be held June 15th at Benson Union High School, we are working with many groups and there will be more details to come.  We all know Pete would want a party and it takes time to do it right.

In lieu of flowers we the family hope those who wish to express sympathy to consider waiting to make a donation to the upcoming Peter Bearse Athletic Fund to assist with cost sharing for students that are interested in extra-curricular sports.  Mr. Bearse bought many pairs of cleats over the last 5 decades and we would like his legacy to continue.  

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Peter Jackson Bearse, please visit our floral store.