John Merritt Beam, 83, of Fort Wayne, passed away August 17th 2022 surrounded by his family. He was born at Wabash Hospital on September 16th 1938 to Paul and Jesse Beam and grew up in North Manchester. He honorably served his country in the US Air Force during the Berlin Crisis and was stationed in France. John was a graduate of Manchester College and he worked for the Lincoln National Life Insurance company for 34 years.

He was a devoted and loving husband, dad, and grandpa. John was happiest when surrounded by family and friends, spending time at lake Webster, and hosting those he cared about most any day or time. He was an avid fisherman, mushroom hunter, and enjoyed any activity with his seven grandkids. John was a firm believer and loyal member of The Chapel in Fort Wayne where his family also attended.

John is survived by his wife of nearly 62 years Evelyn "Boots" Beam (Holderman); son, Scott (Amy) Beam of North Webster; and daughters, Sara Heinold and Amy (Tom) Gilbert all of Fort Wayne; grandkids, Emily (Scott) Beam, Macy Heinold, Taylor (Sarah) Beam, Drew (Jess) Heinold, Mitch Gilbert, Emma Heinold, and Kyle Gilbert; great grandkids, Ray and Jane Beam; sister, Nancy (Dannie) Wible; and brother, Paul (Sharon) Beam. John is preceded in death by his sister Barbara Floyd, and beloved stepmom Rada Beam. He is also cherished by the entire Holderman family, his extended family, his friends at the YMCA, and his lake buddies.

A celebration of life service will be held Saturday, August 20th at noon, with visitation beforehand from 10am-12pm, at The Chapel (2505 W Hamilton Road S, Ft Wayne, IN 46814). Memorial contributions can be made in John's name to the Honor Flight of Northeast Indiana, Erin's House, or The Chapel. His family will forever treasure all of the memories and laughs we shared with him and look forward to more "fish fries at 5" in heaven.

Donations

Memorial contributions can be made in John's name to the Honor Flight of Northeast Indiana, Erin's House, or The Chapel.