Beverly Jean Dechant

Beverly Jean Dechant, lovingly known as Bev, graced this world with her presence on May 2, 1946, in the serene state of Nebraska. After a life filled with warmth and joy, she passed away peacefully, surrounded by her beloved family, on September 25, 2024, in Thornton, Colorado.

 Bev Demers grew up in Sunol, with her two sisters and two brothers, helping the family tend to their many wheat fields. In Highschool she met Doyle Van Cleave whom she married; they moved to Colorado where they raised two children Kevin and Sheila. Bev spent her career as a Cafeteria Manager for the Jefferson County Elementary Schools, enjoying summers off to be the neighborhood mom.

 Later in life, Beverly married Robert (Bob) Newton. They joined families and spent many days attending car shows, and spending time with neighbors, family, and friends at their lake property. Bob preceded Beverly in death, and several years later, Bev married Eugene Dechant. 

Bev embodied the essence of love, compassion, wisdom, nurturing the souls of those around her with an unmatched dedication. Her loving and caring nature endeared her to many, marking her as a truly special individual. Bev’s heart overflowed with kindness, and she possessed an incredible spirit that illuminated the lives of those fortunate enough to know her. 

Throughout her life, she reveled in the simple joys that could be shared with others. Family gatherings were not just events; they were celebrations of togetherness that she cherished deeply. The holidays were particularly special, filled with laughter and the joy of playing games including poker, cards, dice and various board games—a testament to her love for connection and camaraderie.

 Her real passion was traveling with friends and family. She coordinated so many wonderful trips and traveled the world. For many years, Bev celebrated her birthday with a “girls” trip, which often included her daughters Sheila, Gerre, and her nieces and sisters and friends. Her birthday trips were always something to look forward to. In fact, less than a year ago, she was in Thailand, Vietnam, and a month later was on a Mediterranean cruise to Italy, France and Spain with her friends and her sister. Her many trips added richness to our lives as we all got to experience them through her many stories and her fun adventures. She was never short of life stories and her adventures will live within all of us!

 Beverly's interests extended into cooking, she loved cooking for everyone and was known as the “pie lady” and would show up to your house with a pie that she had made. She found joy in reading, going to the movies and was involved with numerous clubs. She hosted many pool parties and packed many lunches just to make sure everyone was fed. These hobbies were not mere pastimes; moreover, they were weekly events and avenues through which she shared her vibrant spirit with others. 

Above all, Beverly took immense pride in her role as a mother and grandmother. Her proudest accomplishments were the cherished moments spent with her children, Sheila, Kevin and Gerre, alongside their families, and lovingly spending time with her grandchildren—Nicole, Jimmie, Zack, Angelo, Lauren, Jessica and her great grandchildren, Elsa and Shelby. Her grandchildren will miss those fun vacations together. Her legacy of love will undoubtedly continue to resonate within their hearts and lives.

 She is survived by her daughter Sheila Ochoa and her son-in-law Ricardo, her son Kevin Van Cleave and daughter-in-law Melissa, her daughter Gerre Heathman and son-in-law Tom, her two beloved sisters, Lynn Runion and Diane Wisinski, and her adoring grandchildren. While she is mourned by her family, she is preceded in death by her husband and her two brothers, Joe and Dean Demers, who await her in eternal peace.

 A memorial service to honor and celebrate Beverly's beautiful life will be held on October 10, 2024, from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM at Newcomer Funeral Home, West Metro, located at 901 S Sheridan Blvd, Denver, CO 80226. The memorial service will commence at 3:00 PM, followed by a gathering, allowing friends and family to come together in remembrance of a treasured soul whose impact will forever resonate in our hearts. Beverly Jean Dechant leaves behind a legacy imbued with love, laughter, and cherished memories that will endure for generations to come. May her spirit continue to inspire us to cherish our relationships and relish the time we have with our loved ones. 

In Lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Project Angel Heart in Memory of Beverly Dechant, or cards can be sent to the family.