John Beal, 89

John Lawrence Beal, 89, passed away on Thursday, Jan. 11, 2024, in Kootenai, Idaho.

John was born in Spokane, Wash., on June 11, 1934, to Robert and Frances Beal. He attended Central Valley High School and graduated in 1952. After high school, John was in the Navy Reserves and worked for a time at Kaiser Aluminum, Alsco Linen, and was a driver for Eerie Dairy.

He became active duty in the Navy during the Korean War, and later opened up A-Valley Texaco and Towing Company. In 1976, he dropped the service station and it became A-Valley Towing, and he married Louise on Jan. 1, 1976.

Together, they had a son, Steve, and raised a blended family of five children. In 1996, John and his family moved to Sandpoint, Idaho, and opened up Fantastic Sam’s Salon. John continued to help his wife at the salon for the next 15 years.

John was very proud of his family and loved to gather whenever possible. He had an undying love for the Yaak River Country where he built his cabin. He also loved aircrafts and anything to do with motors and mechanical work. He leaves behind a profound love for his family and friends. 

John is survived by his wife of 48 years, Louise Beal; his sons, Douglas (Robbin) Beal and Steven Beal; step-sons Dean (Koren) Freel and Mark (Kelly) Freel; daughter Loretta (Frank) Vernon; sister Ellen (Ernie) Harder; half-sister Rae; half-brothers Mike and Dave; 13 grandchildren; and 13 great-grandchildren. 

John is preceded in death by his parents and granddaughter Tamara.

Lakeview Funeral Home in Sandpoint is handling the arrangements. Please visit John’s online memorial page at www.lakeviewfuneral.com and sign his guest book.