Sally Marie Beckmann, 76, a beloved lifelong resident of Anacortes, Washington, passed away peacefully on December 29, 2025. Her life was marked by kindness, humor, resilience, and an unwavering love for family, friends, and the natural world.

Born in Anacortes to Lorene Smith and Vern Ferguson, Sally was one of seven girls and grew up surrounded by sisters, adventure, and the beauty of the Pacific Northwest. She spent her childhood climbing trees, riding bikes, hiking, and camping—activities that sparked her lifelong passion for the outdoors. A proud graduate of Anacortes High School, Class of 1967, she later reconnected with many of her school friends. Their monthly lunches and shared trips revived their schoolgirl antics and strengthened bonds that lasted a lifetime.

Guided by an adventurous spirit and a natural gift for connecting with others, Sally served proudly in the United States Army for two years, achieving the rank of E‑5. While stationed at Fort Sam Houston in San Antonio, Texas, she met Mitchell Beckmann. The two married in 1969 and began building a life rooted in love, laughter, and shared purpose.

After completing their military service, Sally and Mitchell returned to Anacortes to raise their three children. Their home was filled with joy, humor, and a deep appreciation for the outdoors. In their early years, they were active members of the local bowling league and later took up golf, often bringing the kids along to alleys and courses. Family drives, fishing trips, and camping adventures became cherished traditions—memories her children continue to honor through the same beloved activities.

Sally is survived by her children John Beckmann, Deana Rashleger (Erik), and Rhonda Potts (Bill); her grandchildren Seth, Ben, Chloe, Owen, Grace, and Jordan; her baby sister Barb Collins; and many cousins, nieces, and nephews who adored her.

Sally began her working life in local fish canneries before discovering her true calling as a meat stylist, a career she embraced for more than forty years in grocery stores throughout the community. Her strong work ethic, sharp humor, and ability to befriend complete strangers made her unforgettable in every aisle she walked. To many, she was affectionately known as "Safeway Sal."

She found joy in mountains, rivers, daffodils, tulips, snow geese, long drives, and countryside adventures. Her favorite place in the world was Boulder Creek at Mount Baker, where she felt most at peace. A devoted rockhound, she delighted in building rock towers wherever she went, often gifting her creations to friends and family. In her final year, she could often be seen riding her electric three‑wheeled bike around Anacortes—an activity that brought her immense joy and made her feel like a child again.

Sally loved animals, especially cats and dogs, often joking that she loved them more than people—though she managed to make a new friend everywhere she went. She enjoyed fishing trips, new cars, new toys, restoring old Volkswagens, Mexican food, and was the undisputed queen of puzzles. A passionate sports fan, she cheered fiercely for the Seahawks, Mariners, and her favorite golf champions. Her favorite song, one that perfectly captured her spirit, was "Girls Just Wanna Have Fun" by Cyndi Lauper.

Sally had a mischievous streak and delighted in playful pranks. She gifted pretty boxes filled with jumping spiders, hid surprises in old mint tins, and told tall tales with a straight face and a twinkle in her eye. Over the years, she earned many affectionate nicknames, including "Lie Lie," "Crazy Sal," "Silly Sal," "Mother," and "Grammy." She treasured time with her grandchildren, sharing long conversations filled with wisdom, unconditional love, and unwavering support. Among her many memorable sayings were: "Kill 'em with kindness," "Want me to kick you in the knee?" and "Want a bare bottom spanking?"

Sally leaves behind a legacy of joy, generosity, laughter, and unforgettable stories that will continue to be shared for generations.

A graveside service with military honors will be held on Friday, February 20, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Fernhill Cemetery in Anacortes, Washington, with a reception to follow at Seafarers Memorial.

To share memories of Sally, please sign her online guestbook and bookmark this link for future visits: www.evanschapel.com/obituary/sally-beckmann