Sept. 25, 1937–March 20, 2020
Known as an outdoor enthusiast, David Beattie ’59, GP’09 was often fishing, canoeing, skiing, or working on his garden. It is fitting that Beattie Reserve — Colgate’s wilderness area — bears his family’s name.
Beattie was deeply involved in the Hamilton community. “Of special note was his extensive volunteer service — helping individuals in need, along with the organizations he supported. He never said ‘no’ and was always the first to offer assistance,” says his good friend, Mayor RuthAnn Loveless MA’72.
He contributed his skills to Habitat for Humanity, through which he built many homes and taught building skills to AmeriCorps volunteers. Beattie also was active in the Hamilton Food Cupboard, vice president of the Madison Lane Senior Homes Board, and chairperson of the Village of Hamilton Zoning Board of Appeals.
At Colgate, Beattie was a geology major, member of Delta Upsilon, and soccer player. “As a proud alumnus, David not only cherished his memories of his days as a student, but he also stayed connected with and invested in the lives of today’s students and student-athletes,” says Vice President and Director of Athletics Nicki Moore.
He and his wife, Susan, were one of three couples who founded the Senior Rowdy Raiders, a fan group that cheers on the women’s volleyball team. “David was a man who committed his heart, his time, and his loud, booming voice to our program and many others at Colgate,” says Head Volleyball Coach Ryan Baker. “He and Susan played a huge part in the players’ and coaches’ lives.” In addition to attending all volleyball home matches, David and Susan made a number of road trips, supporting the team across the country. They also hosted meals for the players and “were always there for a hug or smile after a big win or tough loss,” Baker adds.
Head Men’s Basketball Coach Matt Langel says, “David, to me, represented the genuine love and appreciation for everything Colgate that some alumni have. His choice to retire here and support the teams, students, and Hamilton community will always remain in my heart. His attendance at all games was evidence for me to use with my team as an example of what we often share: that we don’t play for just ourselves, that people care.”
David is survived by Susan, his wife of 57 years; a son and his wife; two daughters and their husbands; 6 grandchildren, including Kelsey OYong ’09; brother Herbert ’57; a brother-in-law; nieces and nephews, including David ’85, P’17; and cousins. He was predeceased by his mother and his father, Walter ’28; sister; and mother- and father-in-law.