James Robert Beam

James Robert "Bob" Beam, 77, passed away peacefully on February 16, 2014, at Genesis Hospice-Morrison House, surrounded by his loving family. He was preceded in death by his parents Gerald E. and Aldine Marie Beam and by several uncles and aunts. He is survived by his love and life partner, his wife of 57 years, Kayleen Beam, his son and professional partner, Jeff Robert Beam (Susan) and his cherished grandchildren Brandais Elizabeth and Nathan Robert Beam. Further he is survived by his sisters, Dixie Barr, Canton, Ohio, Geraldine Adams (Roger) Deshler, Ohio and his brother Gerald E. Beam Jr. (Janet) Toledo, Ohio. He is also survived by his sisters-in-law Sharon Shoemaker (George) and Sue Taylor (Gene) both of Bradenton, Florida. He is survived also by several cousins, nieces and nephews. Bob was born April 13, 1936 in Morrow County. He graduated from High School in McComb, Ohio where he and Kayleen met. Bob graduated valedictorian of his class. He attended Ohio Northern University and received his Bachelor of Arts degree, with Distinction, and later his Juris Doctor degree, with High Distinction. Kayleen worked as the executive aide to the CEO of Old Dutch Brewery to provide funds for Bob's education. Bob was admitted to practice law in 1960 and located in Zanesville as his first choice to practice. He practiced as a partner of Gottlieb, Johnston, Beam and Dal Ponte for 53 years, being awarded a 50 years of practice citation by the Ohio State Bar Association. Bob's practice was focused on representing closely held family owned businesses. Bob was a member of Grace United Methodist Church for over 50 years having served on the Administrative Board and Board of Trustees. Bob believed strongly in the importance of the success of the Community adding to the success of all and was actively involved in and served as a Director and as President of each of the Junior Chamber of Commerce, Kiwanis, and Chamber of Commerce. He was one of the original founding Directors and served as President of the Muskingum County Community Foundation. Bob enjoyed his family, his law practice, and golfing at the Zanesville Country Club for nearly 50 years where he served as a Director and President. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Grace United Methodist Church: 516 Shinnick Street, Zanesville, Ohio 43701; the Muskingum County Community Foundation: 534 Putnam Avenue, Zanesville, Ohio 43701; Genesis Cancer Center: 1246 Ashland Avenue, Suite 205, Zanesville, Ohio 43701; Genesis Hospice-Morrison House: 713 Forest Avenue, Zanesville, Ohio 43701, or to the charity of your choice. A memorial service will be held at 11:30 A.M. on Friday, March 28, 2014, at Grace United Methodist Church, Zanesville. Arrangements were entrusted to the BOLIN-DIERKES FUNERAL HOME & CREMATORY, 1271 BLUE AVENUE, ZANESVILLE.