07/04/2026
Rider in the Sky – Milton Beckendorff, Austin County Trail Riders
It is with deep sympathy that we announce the passing of our friend Milton Beckendorff, a past Trail Boss and longtime member of the Salt Grass Trail Ride. Milton passed away on Wednesday, July 1, 2026.
Milton has been an inspiration to so many of us for many years. He was a strong and honorable man who lived a full and meaningful life. Together with his wife, he embraced every part of life with joy, always heading into each day with a smile. He began working at a very young age as a rice farmer and later became involved in cattle ranching. He was a longtime member of the Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association, serving and supporting the cattle industry for more years than many of us can remember.
Milton loved life with his family, his cattle, and his ranch. Ranching was truly his way of life, and each day he looked forward to getting out on the ranch. He was also a lifetime member of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo™ and served on the Grand Entry Committee for many years. He loved supporting the children, the show, and the community, and he proudly drove a wagon each night in the Grand Entry.
Milton loved his cattle and horses and rode proudly, especially when sitting tall on his big gray horse. He was proud to serve the Salt Grass Trail Ride Association and held many offices on the executive board, most proudly serving as Trail Boss, following in his father’s footsteps. Above all, Milton was a devoted family man who supported his children in every aspect of life. He loved having them involved in the family business and enjoyed working alongside them. Milton loved his wife, his partner in life, and together they lived it to the fullest. They all embraced life together along the trail, through the rodeo, and in the family business. Milton was an extraordinary man, a true hero, and a legend whose impact will never be forgotten.
We extend our sincere condolences to Milton’s family, extended family, and friends, and ask that you keep them in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
Visitation & Service will be held at:
Trinity Lutheran Church
402 Atchison St.
Sealy, TX 77474
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Visitation will be held on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm
The funeral service will be held on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, at 10:00 am
