Reverend Eldon "Jeff" Mcbeth

Jeff McBeth, of Arbor Vitae, passed away on Thursday, April 9, at Avanti Rehabilitation and Care facility, where he had lived for 3 1/2 years. He received diligent care and kindness there.

Jeff was born in Rotan, Texas on Dec 6, 1932. He was the middle son of 8 boys. Jeff had wonderful stories of growing up on a farm, and then in a dusty little town during the depression. He had a deep love and respect for farmers all his life.

He graduated as a student with honors from Plainview high school, then Wayland Baptist University, and Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Fort Worth, Texas. He went on to pastor for 51 years in Texas, Canada, Colorado, Wisconsin, and Minnesota. He had a lifelong passion for people, and his family has received many letters and messages, from people of all ages, about how much his ministry and care touched their lives over the years. He believed in the equality of all people, championed civil rights, and was invited to speak at African America churches on occasion in Texas, and in Milwaukee. He leaves a legacy of love.

Jeff is survived by two of his seven brothers, his wife of 66 years, Jane McBeth, of Arbor Vitae, and his daughter Vicki McBeth Fleming and her husband, Jim Fleming, of Hazelhurst. He is also survived by his grand children, James and Kara Fleming of Steven’s Point, and Ryan and Elisabeth (Fleming) Matthews of Bayfield, as well as four beloved great grand children.

Jeff spent the last 3 1/2 years in nursing care at the Avanti Rehab facility in Minocqua. The family would like to thank Avanti for the excellence of care and kindness over the years. They believe that it afforded the precious extra years with Jeff, where his wife visited almost daily. They would also like to thank the staff at Marshfield Clinic, Howard Young Medical Center and Nimsgern Funeral Services.

There will be a memorial service and celebration of his life at Faith Evangelical Free Church as soon as they are able to gather there, hopefully sometime in May.

Any donations should be directed to Avanti Rehabilitation Center.

Online condolences may be shared at www.nimsgernfuneral.com

NIMSGERN FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICES IS SERVING THE FAMILY.