With heavy hearts, we have been informed that Judi Beischel, Past Arizona Department Commander (PDC) in 2013-2014, passed away quietly after entering hospice in New York. Details of funeral arrangements will be announced as soon as provided by the family. What we do know is that she will be laid to rest near her home in upstate New York.
About Judi: Judi Beischel, a Coast Guard veteran, traces her American Legion roots to birth.
Her father, Francis Slate – a World War II Army veteran and past post commander – with over 70 years as a Legionnaire. Her brother, Kevin, served in the Navy and is a Legionnaire, too. Her mother belonged to the Auxiliary, along with her sisters.
“I was always proud that my dad was very active in the post,” said Judi, while serving as Arizona’s Department Commander. “It’s something that you pass on to the kids. We’ve got many grandchildren, and they have all been members (of the Legion Family) since they were born. You’ve got to start them out young.”
Born on Memorial Day, she spent much of her childhood at her father’s post in upstate New York. One of her earliest memories is marching in a Memorial Day parade at age 4.
Judi worked tirelessly to support veterans who were down on their luck. As department commander, she oversaw an initiative to build a 24-unit facility for homeless women veterans. “We’re seeing a lot of young homeless veterans because they don’t have jobs or family to come back to,” she says. “It’s difficult.”
Her passion to help others comes from her close-knit families at home and at Post 58 in Fountain Hills, Ariz.
“From the time I was very young, I knew my dad lost his brother at Normandy on June 6,” she says. “I’ve always felt a need to welcome veterans. So many Vietnam veterans came back and were treated poorly. We try to make sure that doesn’t happen again.”
Branch of Service: Coast Guard Reserve, 1973-1980
MOS: Boatswain’s mate
Rank at discharge: Petty officer first class
American Legion Post: Post 58, Fountain Hills, Ariz.
Years in the Legion: a PUFL with 26 years
Veterans Activities
- Department commander (2013-2014)
- Arizona Veterans Hall of Fame (2012)
- District 12 commander (2009-2010)
- National American Legion College graduate (2009)
- Member 20-4
Arizona Veterans Hall of Fame Biography:
Born in Rome, New York in 1948. Boatswain’s Mate First Class, US Coast Guard Reserves, with service 1973-1980 during the Vietnam Era. Retired in 2001 as a Special Service Technician, Bell Systems. At American Legion Post 58, she helped organize sending care packages to deployed soldiers and the State Veterans’ Home. She has conducted clothing and bottle water drives in support of the Arizona StandDown, MSVA, Mary Ellen’s Place, and the MANA House for homeless veterans, where she serves on the Advisory Council. A tireless volunteer, she has raised funds for Hurricane Katrina, US Vets, and several non-profit organizations. She is a member of Women in Military Service to America, outgoing National Director 20+4, Honor Society of Women Legionnaires, and Candidate for Arizona Department Commander, American Legion.
“Semper paratus,” Judi. “Fair winds and following seas.”
