Roll Call Tribute

Warren Lamar Beard 

February 25, 1958 - July 24, 2023 

Dr. Warren Lamar Beard, DVM, age 65, died July 24, 2023 unexpectedly at his residence in Olsburg, Kansas. Warren was an equine veterinary surgeon and had worked at Kansas State College of Veterinary Medicine since 2004.

Dr. Beard was born February 25, 1958 in Corpus Christi, Texas to Nathaniel Gerald Beard and Vida Stephenson Beard. He was married to Dr. Laurie Beard, DVM, MS, Diplomate ACVIM and they have two children, Nat and Anne. He is survived by his wife, children, mother (Vida), sister Julie Borgan, brother Dr. Bradley Beard, niece Dr. Caroline Borgan, and nephew Zachary Borgan. Warren grew up in Houston and New Orleans. He discovered his passion for veterinary medicine by spending time with his uncle Dr. Edward “Booster” Stephenson (a veterinarian) and his wife Pat. He also spent a lot of time with his cousins Baret and Cris Stephenson.

Dr. Beard received his bachelor’s degree (Magna Cum Laude) and DVM degrees from Texas A&M University in 1982 and 1983 respectively. He entered private practice in Dickinson, Texas, for two years before moving to Ohio State University to begin a residency in equine surgery. He completed his surgical residency and received a master’s degree in surgical sciences in 1988. In 1989, he became a diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Surgeons. He remained at Ohio State until 2004, before leaving to start a new position at Kansas State University.

Dr. Beard was well respected as a veterinary surgeon, in addition to his outstanding mentoring of veterinary students and residents. Not only was Dr. Beard known for his success regarding his career, he was also passionate about living life beyond his job. Dr. Beard enjoyed fly fishing (trout and salmon), skiing, hunting, and working cows. He served as an excellent role model for young veterinarians by demonstrating the importance of work-life balance.

The family will greet friends during a visitation from 6:00 until 7:00p.m. Thursday August 24, 2023 at the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home in Manhattan, KS.

A memorial service for Dr. Beard will be held 4:00 p.m. Friday, August 25, 2023 at the College of Veterinary Medicine (BI auditorium).

A memorial fund to honor Dr. Beard has been established in support of equine resident training at Kansas State University Foundation. https://www.givecampus.com/campaigns/37824/donations/new 

Contributions may be sent in care of the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, Kansas 66502.