Laurence Edward Beam, age 89

of Newton, Illinois passed away at 10:47 PM – Tuesday, July 14, 2015 at HSHS St. Anthony's Hospital in Effingham, Illinois.
Graveside services will be held at 11:00 AM – Saturday, July 18, 2015 at the Brick Cemetery in rural Newton, Illinois with Mike Knepper officiating. In loving memory of Laurence, memorials may be made to the American Heart Association. Arrangements are under the care of the Meyer Funeral Home in Newton, Illinois.
Laurence was born on December 13, 1925 in rural Newton, Illinois the son of Robert and Virginia (Adkins) Beam. He married Dorothy Wigall on December 15, 1945 in Dieterich, Illinois and she survives.
Laurence was a lifelong farmer and was the owner of Rocking B Bar Ranch where he raised Santa Gertrudis Cattle. He was a member of the Central Christian Church in Newton, Illinois; Santa Gertrudis Breeders Association and former member of the Jasper County Fair board were he served for many years. He was also an avid gun collector and enjoyed shooting trap.
Laurence is survived by:
Wife of 69 years – Dorothy Beam of Newton, Illinois
Children – Larry (Becky) Beam of Hastings, Nebraska
Garry (Beverly) Beam of Newton, Illinois
Margaret (Marion) Ochs of Newton, Illinois
12 Grandchildren 30 Great Grandchildren 7 Great Great Grandchildren

Laurence was preceded in death by his parents.