The Woodlands, TX - Lieutenant General Robert Duane Beckel, United States Air Force (Retired), passed away peacefully on November 8, 2025, in The Woodlands, Texas, at the age of 88. His life was marked by distinguished military service, educational leadership, and enduring dedication to excellence.

Born on January 2, 1937, in Walla Walla, Washington, General Beckel graduated with the inaugural class of the United States Air Force Academy in 1959. He earned a Master of Science in international affairs from The George Washington University in 1971 and completed advanced military education at the College of Naval Command and Staff and the National War College.

After earning his pilot wings in 1960, General Beckel flew F-100s and F-105s with the 49th Tactical Fighter Wing in West Germany. He flew solo with the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds from 1965 to 1967 and completed 313 combat missions in Vietnam in the 614th Tactical Fighter Squadron.

His career included roles as instructor, legislative liaison, and aide to the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. He held command positions at Beale and K.I. Sawyer Air Force Bases and led the 7th Air Division at Ramstein Air Base. In 1981, he became Commandant of Cadets at the Air Force Academy. Later assignments included senior leadership roles at AF HQ, Strategic Air Command and NATO.

Promoted to lieutenant general in 1987, he commanded the 15th Air Force at March Air Force Base. He logged over 4,400 flying hours and received numerous decorations, including the Defense Distinguished Service Medal, Silver Star, and Distinguished Flying Cross with four oak leaf clusters.

Following retirement, he served as Superintendent of New Mexico Military Institute (1996-2004) and later consulted internationally. He enjoyed fishing, travel, and "wine time" with loved ones.

He was preceded in death by his high school sweetheart and loving wife, Donna Beckel. He is remembered by his children Robert Beckel Jr. (Vivian) and Valerie Beckel Honsinger (Mike); six grandchildren; and seventeen great-grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held on December 4, 2025, at the United States Air Force Academy, 3024 Parade Loop. A private Celebration of Life will follow at the Polaris Hotel in Colorado Springs.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Lt Gen Beckel Leadership Chair at the NMMI Foundation: https://www.paypal.com/donate?token=ptSY25-FxxS-1mkmmDaKI-vMCYAwtpYFeHapQPToZW25j7u5YKHJkOGBBw7WfcOSFrvdZCIhfmyFPfFd