Aug. 11, 1927 to Sept. 29, 2024
Mary Elizabeth Beerbohm (nèe Reitan) or “Beth” to so many who love her, passed away on September 29th, after a brief illness. Beth was born in the small town of Halstad, Minnesota. She graduated in 1945 from high school, and enrolled in the University of North Dakota where she graduated in 1949 with a degree in English. In 1951, she taught English before she moved to Palo Alto in 1953. In 1965, she was the executive secretary for Director Wolfgang Panofsky at SLAC until she retired in 1993. She was proud of her time at SLAC, witnessing four Nobel prizes while she was there.
In 1980 she married Harry Beerbohm, who brought much love and laughter to her life. Harry had one adult daughter when he and Beth got married, Elisa Beerbohm. They remained married until his death in 1988.
Beth was a such beautiful lady, with deep intelligence, a sparkling wit; she was a lifetime music lover; with a real zest for life. She gave so much love and joy to others.
Beth was preceded in death by her parents: Henry S. Reitan and Gladys Rose (Macadie), her sole sibling: Henry Macadie Reitan; father of Beth’s niece: Kari Beth Reitan; who survives her. Beth is also survived by her stepdaughter: Elisa Beerbohm.
No services will be held.
Remembrance donations may be made in her honor to one of Beth’s favorite charities: Best Friends Animal Society or any charity of your choice.
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