Gordon Beesley

Gordon Beesley was a police officer, musician, hiker, biker, husband, father, brother, uncle and beloved friend during his 51 years.  Born in Connecticut and raised in New Jersey, Gordon moved to Boulder to attend the University of Colorado before settling in the area permanently with his wife and two sons.

As a widely respected officer with the Arvada Police Department, Gordon served most recently as the school resource officer at Oberon Middle School, where he ensured the school’s safety, inspired students and staff, and made them laugh every day. Visiting his memorial at the Arvada police station were many people whose lives he touched: an alcoholic whom Beesley had arrested seven years ago and who credits Beesley with turning his life around; two sisters who were mentored by Beesley when their father was removed from their home; a group of teachers from the middle school who talked Beesley into speaking at the puberty education classes at the school because they knew that although it would embarrass him, the kids would actually listen to him; a man whose car had broken down in the middle of the night, leaving him and his family stranded until Beesley came to his aid. A woman who cleaned his office at the middle school for eight years commented that every time she entered the office, Gordon would stop what he was doing and take the time to say hello and ask about her family. A student at the middle school recounted that she was bullied and had no friends at school, and that Gordon always talked to her at recess and helped her get through a very difficult time.

As a drummer, Gordon played with bands including Sponge Kingdom, Durt, Brethren Fast, The Retrosonics and the Railbenders. He loved the outdoors and enjoyed skiing, hiking, camping and biking. He and his family also traveled extensively.

Many have been inspired by Gordon’s kindness, bravery, and sense of humor, and his memory will be treasured by his family and friends always. Donations to support Gordon’s family may be sent to the Colorado Fallen Hero Foundation at cofallenhero.org.