The family tradition continues at long-time Grinnell business

      Ryan Beckman is shown at Beckman Gallery II, 912 Main St., Grinnell. Ryan has taken over the family business following the passing of his dad, Jim, who opened his first Beckman Gallery in Newton in 1991. The business will continue to offer home décor, gifts and custom framing.       ​

By J.O. Parker
 
       A long-time Grinnell business will continue to operate under the same name, same location while offering the same friendly service.
     Beckman Gallery II announced recently that Ryan Beckman, son of the late Jim Beckman, founder of the business, has taken over the business and will continue in his father’s footsteps.
      Beckman Gallery II specializes in home décor, gifts and custom framing.
      The business is located at 912 Main St., Grinnell.
     Ryan, who grew up in the Waterloo/Cedar Falls area and spent several years traveling and sailing, was living near Burlington, VT where he operated a home remodeling business when he learned that his father, Jim, was ill.
      “Everything was going well, then dad got sick again,” Ryan said. “The cancer had come back and I decided to close up shop and move to Iowa to take care of him.”
       Ryan returned to Iowa in February of this year and took care of his dad until his passing on Aug. 6.
       “I had been helping at the shop and once my dad passed, I thought it would be good to keep the business going,” Ryan said.
        When asked about taking over the business, Ryan said it is a little surreal right now.
         “I like the people I am meeting and I like the craft of framing,” he said.
          Four long-time employees of Jim’s will remain at the business.
          “It’s a great team here,” said Ryan.
           Beckman Gallery II is open Monday – Friday, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.; and Saturday, 10 – 4 p.m.
The business phone number is 641-236-3344.