Beecher died June 1, 2019, while windsurfing at Kanaha Beach Park on Maui. Beecher was born in September 1941 in Meriden CT to Frank and Ella Wooding. He earned a BA in Geology at Harvard, graduating in 1965. He worked for Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution in Massachusetts for 40 years. The bulk of his career at WHOI was spent designing and developing instrumentation for the ocean-bottom environment. He participated in at least 60 science cruises.

Beecher is survived by his wife of over 51 years Christine M. Wooding; by his sister Sara W. (Keith) Goodrich of Lake Forest IL, three nephews, a niece and their children and grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister-in-law Anne B. Bradley of Haiku, and three brothers-in-law.

Beecher loved windsurfing and the ever-changing wind and sea. He accepted the risks, lived life to the fullest and was an inspiration to many. We will miss his dry wit, his sensitivity to critical issues facing mankind and the environment but most of all the spirit of a man who loved his family, had many friends, and adapted to the challenges of a changing world.

Contributions in Beecher’s name can be made to the Maui Humane Society where he volunteered. A paddle-out will be held at Kanaha Beach Park at a future date.

His family sends heartfelt thanks to the lifeguards, EMTs, police, firemen, friends and strangers who worked so hard to try to rescue Beecher.