Lester Beam

November 7, 1938 - February 9, 2021

Lester Beam, 82, of Sobieski, passed away February 9, 2021 from complications of kidney failure. He was born November 7, 1938, in Sturgeon Bay, and is the son of the late Lester and Lorraine (Tipler) Beam. Les grew up in Green Bay where he married Faith Van Donsel in 1980. Les graduated from Premontre High School and enrolled in the Army where he became a Special Forces Green Beret, serving for 32 years, and retiring as an Airborne Master Parachutist and Jumpmaster. He was an original member of the Great Lakes Special Forces Chapter 73 and served as Chapter Treasurer for more than 25 years. Les was also employed at Morley Murphy Company and Lord’s Dental Studio for many years. Les enjoyed spending time at his cottage in Dunbar snowmobiling, dirt biking, hiking, and watching wildlife. He was an avid hunter, fisherman, and participated in many trap shooting leagues over the years. Les was an accomplished handyman, woodworker, built three houses in Dunbar, including his cottage, and was always active with a project of some type. He was a kind, generous, and compassionate man who went out of his way to help others. Les is survived by his wife Faith Beam; son, Greg (Sandy Inserra) Beam; mother-in-law, Patricia Van Donsel; brother-in laws, Keith (Heidi) Van Donsel, Chad (Renee) Van Donsel, Tim Van Donsel; sister-in-law, Pam Greenberg; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. He is preceded in death by his parents; brother Larry; sister-in-law Lisa Van Donsel; and father-in-law Merlyn Van Donsel. A Memorial Service and Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. The family would like to extend a special thank you to St. Vincent ICU staff for their compassion and care.