Edgar "Ed" Beyer
Edgar “Ed” Beyer Jr., 77, of Hillsboro, ND was called home to his Savior on January 10, 2016 at Sanford Medical Center, with his loving daughters and son-in-laws by his side.
He was born in Appleton, MN on October 9, 1938, to Amanda and Edgar Beyer, Sr. He moved to Elbow Lake, MN in 1944 where he graduated from high school. Ed attended Concordia College in Moorhead, MN, where he earned his BA degree, graduating in 1960. Ed was the starting 2nd baseman for the Concordia baseball team for four years, and was team captain his Senior year. He married Elaine Koch on June 6, 1958 and they shared a truly special love story.
Ed and Elaine moved to Hillsboro in the fall of 1960 and they were blessed with daughters, Tammy and Deb. Ed taught the Vocational Office Education classes for 37 years. Ed coached football for 15 seasons. He coached Hillsboro to the 1962 State Legion Baseball Championship. He coached the Burros baseball team for eight seasons winning the State Class B Baseball Championships in 1967 and 1968. Ed served as track coach for seven seasons and served as Athletic Director for 21 years. Ed was the director of the Hillsboro Summer Recreation programs for 26 years. Ed coached the Burro boy’s basketball program for 37 years, during which time they were the most successful boy’s basketball program in the state with a record of 688-195. The Burros won 79% of their games and Ed retired as the winningest North Dakota boys’ basketball coach in history. The Burros won four State Class B boy’s basketball championships in 1973, 1974, 1977 and 1981, when they went undefeated. The Burros made 13 appearances in the State Class B boy’s basketball tourney and won 19 conference championships. Ed was selected as the ND Class B Boy’s Basketball Coach of the Year in 1973 and 1974. He was selected the 1977 North Dakota High School Coach of the Year by the ND Sportswriters and Sportscasters. Ed served on the North Dakota High School Coaches Association Executive Board from 1981-1986; President in 1984. Ed was inducted into the North Dakota High School Coaches Association’s Hall of Fame in 1987 and the Hillsboro Public School’s Hall of Fame in 2006. He received the Distinguished Service Award from the Coaches Association in 1997.Ed was selected the National Boy’s Basketball Coach of the Year in 1997 and he received the National High School Coaches Association’s Distinguished Service Award in 1988. He served on the National High School Coaches Association’s Executive Board from 1988-1997. Ed was inducted into the National High School Coaches Association Hall of Fame in Washington, DC in 1997. And finally he felt so blessed and honored to be inducted into the North Dakota Sports Hall of Fame in 2012.Ed was a great leader, motivator and mentor to his family, friends, athletes and fellow coaches. He expected discipline and respect and taught as many life lessons off the court as on. This was evidenced in so many ways. Ed started the Red River Valley basketball camps at Mayville State University. He enjoyed his time getting to work with other coaches and getting to know hundreds of basketball players throughout the region and most especially his seven grandchildren. As always he stressed fundamentals and sportsmanship. A highlight for many players was the team building he did by taking them on trips to MN Gopher sporting events, Vikings or MN Twins games. For many it was their first trip to the big city! Ed loved spending time with his wonderful wife, Elaine, who he adored. They enjoyed sporting events of all kinds, many trips, golfing and precious time with their grandchildren and great grandchildren. In recent years, Ed had fun with his buddies, whether it be out for breakfast or a trip to a casino. For Ed’s family, it was always wanting to please him and make him proud. We enjoyed cheering on his teams and the limelight of his coaching success, but it is important for all to know that the limelight of his love and faith were so much more. He lived it and professed it and we were all blessed by it. And as we mourn his passing, we find peace knowing he is with our Savior and our Mom.Ed was preceded in death by his wife Elaine in 2008, his parents, Edgar Sr. and Amanda Beyer, sister, Mavis Olson and sister-in-law, Karen Koch. Surviving him are daughters Tammy (Dave) Nelson of Hillsboro and Deb (Marty) Fetch of Omaha, NE. He also leaves grandchildren, Brad (Aubree) Nelson, Carisa (Don) Powers, Lisa (Isaac) Risbrudt, Craig (Sara) Nelson, Sammi (Jason) Hadfield, Molly (Matt) Anderson, and Marcus Fetch, and great grandchildren, Kolbey, Kynzie and Kohen Powers, Caden, Kellan, Brinley and Beckham Risbrudt, Nash, Briggs and Jax Nelson, Trinity Hadfield, and Emmett Anderson. He is survived by one sister, Sandy Seekon, sister-in-laws Pam (Roger) Swenson, Gayle (Dave) Schnell and brother-in-law Ronald Koch.
Visitation will be from 5-7 p.m., with a prayer service at 7 p.m., Friday Jan. 15, at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church in Hillsboro. Visitation will continue from 10-11 a.m., followed by the funeral at 11 a.m., Saturday Jan. 16, at the church. Burial will be in Riverside Cemetery in Hillsboro. Arrangements by Wildeman-Boulger Funeral Home in Hillsboro.
Condolences may be sent to Tammy Nelson, 806 Post Road, Hillsboro, ND 58045.
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I met Ed as a member of the NDHSCA Executive board, I knew him as a great basketball coach but found him to be a better person and friend, My thoughts and prayers are with his family and the many people who loved and respected this man. He will be missed.
Ed and I grow up together in the 40’s and 50’s. He was in my Wedding and I was in his. Those early years were very special. Our Dads came from a large family’s mostly in MN. and ND. area’s. Not talking with Ed for a lot of years then just like God works there on Facebook is Tammy,s story on her Dad. I was able to get Ed’s phone number and started to call him 2-times a week or so back in Dec. We had many great talks about our time together. My last call was last sat. and we talked about Football games and family. How is loved his Wife,Girls and many Grand kids. I Thank God for our time together on the phone this last month. He will be in our hearts forever. Each day is a gift..and God has the master plan for all of our lives. God Love and Blessing to all!!
Oh By the way.. Yes he always beat me in Basketball.. Ron Beyer
My condolences to Tammy, Deb, and all the family ~ may their memories give them much comfort in these tough, tough days. I coached against Eddie, and then worked at his Red River Basketball Camps for many years at Mayville, bringing players first from Page, ND and then Roseau, MN to learn good fundamental basketball. We also worked in the ND Coaches Association together and he was invaluable as a mentor and colleague. Eddie was highly organized, extremely disciplined and an excellent motivator ~ all things which made him the successful coach he was. Eddie was also very, very caring which sometimes was overlooked with all the success he had. And he was full of fun with a twinkle of mischievousness!! We will miss you, Ed, but I know you not only are in a better place ~ you are loving being reunited with the love of your life. Rest in Peace, my friend.
I am so sorry for your loss. I wish I were able to attend the services; however, we have planned a bridal shower for my daughter, Amanda, this weekend. Junior always held a special place in my heart. Cousin, Linda (Thielke) Krogsrud
I will always remember Ed’s magnetic smile. Over the years, I have often also thought of something Ed and Dick Sanford used to do on the basketball court in Elbow Lake back in the days of the 6-foot wide key. Ed would mosey down the left side of the court, look back at the other guard, then whip a one-handed no-look pass to Dick Sanford who would put it in the bucket before the defensive center knew what was happening.
I have always been told the state of North Dakota outside of Hillsboro was rooting against Burros in the 1977 state championship basketball game. Being a 5th grader at the time, I don’t know that I understood that mentality at the time, but I must confess I was kind of rooting for Hillsboro as I saw a team playing on television that did what they did so well. Four year later, as a freshmen, same thing, perhaps more dominating. And, of course, what impressionable young boy wouldn’t notice the intense, colorfully dressed individual on the sideline orchestrating the team on the floor who had become synonymous with the sport throughout North Dakota?
Little did I know at the time, but ten short years after the ’81 state title, I would begin sharing the sideline with Coach Beyer as an opposing coach. Sports and activities being an integral part of the educational process, there were plenty of lessons learned…of course, one of us did the teaching, the other the learning. I am not too proud to admit to being taught many a lessons by Coach. Over the seven years I coached an opposing team prior to his retirement, my teams never won a single game against a Beyer coached team, but Coach was so gracious, complimentary, and helpful in my growth as a teacher and a coach. And, as I got to know his players, typically after their high school days, I was always impressed how fondly they spoke of their pride in being Hillsboro Burros and their regard for Coach.
I got to know Coach Beyer much better when I began working RRV BB Camps during the summer months. Again, Coach was such an exceptional teacher. His organization, passion, and sheer class was such a wonderful example to myself and countless others. I have used many of those lessons to craft my career in education, albeit no longer in a gymnasium.
Given his years of dedication to education and sports, an area that is so near and dear to me, I cannot help but think the poem, “The Dash” as I reflect on Coach Beyer’s life and his importance to me. I am certain there are many former students, athletes, colleagues, and friends who will shed more than a few tears as they consider the life he spent dedicated to the students of Hillsboro and the surrounding area, as well as to the sport of basketball through the following words from author Linda Ellis:
I read of a man who stood to speak
At the funeral of a friend
He referred to the dates on his tombstone
From the beginning…to the end.
He noted that first came her date of birth
And spoke the following date with tears,
But he said what mattered most of all
Was the dash between those years.
For that dash represents all the time
That he spent alive on earth
And now only those who loved him
Know what that little line is worth.
For it matters not, how much we own;
The cars…the house…the cash,
What matters is how we live and love
And how we spend our dash.
So think about this long and hard…
Are there things you’d like to change?
For you never know how much time is left
That can still be rearranged.
If we could slow down enough
To consider what’s true and real,
And always try to understand
The way other people feel.
And be less quick to anger,
And show appreciation more
And love the people in our lives
Like we’ve never loved before.
If we treat each other with respect,
and more often wear a smile…
Remembering that this special dash
Might only last a while.
So, when your eulogy’s being read
With your life’s actions to rehash…
Would you be proud of the things they say
About how you spent your dash?
R.I.P. Coach
I’m sorry to hear of Ed’s passing. He was a great teacher and my career path was based on those high school classes.
So sorry for your loss Deb, Marty and family.
My condolensces and prayers go out to the entire Beyer family. I lived in Hope, N.D. from 1977-1988, and during that time I officiated numerous Hillsboro High School basketball games. I remember Mr. Beyer as a professional and a perfectionist, and demanded that you be the same way. I always had a congenial and professional relationship with him, as I respected him and I feel he felt the same of me. One of my lasting memories of calling one of his games was the opening game of the season the year the rule was changed requiring coaches to remain seated. The game was in Buxton with Central Valley. We did not get more than 90 seconds into the game and he was standing on the floor near the end of the bench. As I passed by him I raised my arm to call the Technical foul, we grinned at each other, and he didn’t say a word, just sat back down grinning the entire time. As I mentioned before, a true professional. Heaven is a better place today, prayers to your entire family!
I want to express my sincere sympathy to the family for the loss of an amazing man.
I think most everyone is aware that Coach also had an extended family, consisting of all of the athletes who played for him over the years, and in that sense, we are all grieving together. 50 years after I had the privilege of playing basketball for him, just seeing him at athletic events or around town and exchanging wisecracks with him always brought a smile and a warmth.
I never stopped calling him Coach out of complete and affectionate respect. He inspired many of us to be coaches ourselves, and that should tell you all that you need to know about a legacy that will endure for as long as there are those of us who remember his smile, his coaching expertise, and his dedication and enthusiasm, not only to athletics- but to his athletes as well.
I am so sorry for the family. They will be in my heart and prayers. Our families go way back. Our parents were friends at a young age and they were friends till the end. Ed is with his wonderful wife, Elaine. He is up in Heaven golfing and playing any kind of sports he can. Our families lived in Hillsboro at the trailer court. The Beyer girls and myself would ride bike on the sidewalks. Even though my family moved away, Mom and Dad, Bill and Mickey Gibson, would still drive to whatever town the Class B Boys State Tournament was being held just to cheer the Burros on. Ed, Elaine, and Bill are all having a good time together in Heaven.
Craig and family, so sorry for your loss. Hoping that knowing what a complete and purposeful life he served will give you all some solice. And Craig I know he w as s especially proud of all the accomplishments you have made with the Beyer Basketball blood. Your loss is felt by many. Loving prayers Conni
Tammy, Deb and families, So sorry for your loss! Your in my thoughts and prayers!
I did not know Ed but was one of his admirers in the western part of the state.So I read his obituary and learned his beloved wife Elaine had the same name as my beloved, and he lost her in 2008, as I lost my Elaine on on October 7 that same year. So suddenly I feel closer to you. God bless you. How fortunate we are to have loved someone so much that it hurts so badly to say goodbye.
I was going through the obituaries in the Forum this morning a saw Ed had passed away. I never had Ed as a coach or teacher but competed against his teams when I was at Oak Grove High School in the early 70’s. I think I would have enjoyed Ed as a coach. He seemed to have a very caring way about him, as well as a ‘get it done’ attitude. Some years after high school, he was in a check out line across from me at a grocery store in Moorhead. He glanced over and remembered me from “Grover” days. We struck up a short conversation (he remembered my name). I don’t think too many opposing coaches would have gone to the trouble of talking with a ex- competitor from another school, much less remember who they were.
My prayers are with Ed’s family and loved ones at this very hard time.
I was saddened to hear of the passing of Mr. Beyer. He was such a great Coach and mentor to all of us. And as great of a coach he was, he was an even better person. I never coached against him in a game but I Knew when we were playing May Port/ CG with Dave coaching and his grandson playing we were going against the whole family and things didn’t usually turn out very good for us. Nevertheless, he would always have kind words for me and our team. I always enjoyed our conversations. My thoughts and Prayers go out to all his family! Praise the Lord for sharing him with us.
With love and sympathies at this time of loss. So sorry I will not be able to attend the services but will be there in thoughts and prayers. “Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted” Matthew 5:4 . Peace to your family. Carol (Thielke) Kohler
I don’t believe there have been many days in my life since graduating from HHS in 1968 that I have not thought of Mr. Beyer. That is how big his influence has been on me. Mr. Beyer had a fire in him that helped many young athletes and coaches find excellence. It definitely helped me. I can still hear his voice and see his look when I did not meet his expectations. His high standards and his willingness to work to reach those lofty standards left me and all others he touched with a precious gift of the pathway to success. Work hard and be unselfish! That is what he taught me and all the others he coached in sports and in life. I thanked him every time I saw him, and it still is not enough.
Tammy Dave and kids, My deepest sympathies. Jeff so enjoyed working the RRV Basketball Camps with Ed and Dave. Ed enriched the lives of so many. He definitely had a gift and was so willing to share. God Bless his memory.
Pam Braaten
I had the pleasure of knowing Mr. Beyer as both a coach and a teacher. He coached the girls basketball team my freshman year of high school. You couldn’t help wanting to improve your game with him at the helm. I credit him for determining my career path in life. I took as many business, typing and accounting classes that I could fit into my schedule. I continued my love of business at the college level as well. One of my favorites memories was getting to listen to music in Accounting class, usually some old country stuff like Patsy Cline. He will be missed by everyone that knew him. My deepest sympathies to his entire family.
Prayers for peace to the family of Ed Beyer. I am saddened to hear of Ed’s passing. He was a great man, teacher and coach. Please accept my condolences.
My sincere sympathy to you all of you in your loss of dear Ed. I was the youngest daughter of Wally and Florence Beyer and knew him through family get-togethers, with my parents, way back in the 1950’s and 1960’s, probably most of the time at Ed and Amanda’s in Elbow Lake. He always seemed like a great son, husband, father and I am sure also a great grandfather later in life, and I remember hearing many exciting accomplishments through his coaching. As a teenager, I remember always thinking how good looking my “older” cousin was 🙂 May he rest in peace now in the loving arms our our Lord and Savior.
My sincere sympathies for the family at this great time of loss. He truly was an amazing man. I remember his mom and dad talking about all of his accomplishments, and he’s had many. I remember seeing him at family gatherings and when he would spend time with my brother, Ron.. he always had that beaming smile. May he rest in peace at home with our loving Savior…
I have played against Hillsboro in 1984 to 1987 and he was one good coach…..my prayers to u and ur family
Jr. and I were together at many family gatherings. But being a girl, if I wanted to play with him, and Cousin Ronnie, it had to be basketball. yuk. That was the sum of my sports career. We also played hide-and-seek in his Mom’s closets, leaving a real mess for her. He visited us in Denver, once in our teens. We went to Elitches, an amusement Park, and the two of us rode the roller coaster 13 times in succession. So, many memories for me and others. He will be missed. Cousin Dona
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