Brian Russell Beeson

Brian Russell Beeson was born to Kay (Bartolomei) and Gerald Beeson on January 27, 1967 in Healdsburg, CA. He passed away in an inexplicable accident on May 1, 2025, doing what he loved in a place that he loved.

Brian’s mother had a passion for the Western lifestyle and his father was a Cattleman, so of course in Kindergarten when the teacher asked what he wanted to be when he grew up, he proclaimed, “A Cowboy!,” and that is exactly what he grew up to be.

Brian was one hell of a true cowboy; the real deal. He could gather the wild ones, make bridle horses and had an incredible string of working dogs. He was good mannered, a good friend and had a great sense of humor; and if he took the time to “poke” at you, that meant he really liked you!

His early years were spent in the northern hills of Sonoma County, both the east (the Geysers) and the west sides (Warm Springs area); a place where his heart always returned. He learned how to cowboy and started his own sheep herd. He attended grade school in Alexander Valley and boarded with close friends because the ranch was so far from the bus stop. At about thirteen years old he started working at The Ukiah Auction Yard. This is where he made important, life long friends. He started his Freshman year at Healdsburg High School, and then the family relocated to Potter Valley. In Potter Valley he played sports, excelled in FFA, and had a sizable sheep herd, all while helping run the family cattle herd at various leases and in the National Forest. Summers were spent helping to make and haul hay and hitting the rodeo trail here and there.

On July 29, 1988, Brian married Rochelle Bettinelli of Petaluma. They met at the Lake County Fair’s Team Penning and were inseparable after that. They settled in Potter Valley and raised three children, all in the ranching lifestyle. They spent nearly everyday working alongside each other for the Western Dream.

Brian enjoyed music, movies and poetry that stirred the emotions. He could sing every song on the country radio, and did so as he burned up the highways. He could swing dance with the best of them. He may not have had a teaching credential, but he has taught just as many people as any teacher has, how to rope, ride, and ranch. Trail rides, both from his youth and as an adult with the Sonoma County Trailblazers, were some of his favorite memories. He would gather with his friends and family, and would sit and swap cowboy tales for hours while sipping Coors Original or Black Velvet and soda, every chance he could.

Brian lived for his family. He is survived by his wife, Rochelle, of thirty-six years, their children Chance (Kristin), Raylene (Tyler), and Blair (Kylee), his father Gerald, siblings, Gregg (Lori), Lance (Marilyn), and Lovina (Brandon), and seventeen beloved nieces and nephews. His mother Kay, and in-laws, Ralph and Connie preceded him in death.

Please join us May 18, 2025 to celebrate the life of our legendary Cowboy. At high noon there will be a Cowboy Funeral Procession from the Potter Valley Rodeo Grounds to the Potter Valley Cemetery for a 1pm Graveside Service. Please park at the Shepard’s, just south of the cemetery. Following will be a Memorial Service at the Eddie Ranch (9401 Main Street, Potter Valley, CA) and dinner.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to any of the Potter Valley Youth or Non-Profit organizations.