Clarence "Ken" Beam

Clarence "Ken" Beam

AGE: 72 • Middletown

Clarence "Ken" Beam quietly slipped away from this life on July 19, 2016 to join his beloved sister, Sue and parents Mildred and Clarence, and a host of loved ones who predeceased him, eagerly awaiting his boisterous arrival, including his father-in-law, Ben, who had been compiling a long list of celestial chores for him - ever ready to critique.

Quiet is not a word that would normally be associated with Ken. In fact, the July "Full Buck Moon", which arrived an hour before and heralded his departure, reflected more of Ken's larger than life personality and big open and full heart. The only thing that rivaled his love and loyalty for family, friends and his dog was his passion for the NY Giants who, unlike his family and friends, annually disappointed him.

When there was a need, Ken filled it to the brim, not worrying about spillage. His decade old pickup truck and army of mismatched tools enabled him to help in ways that exceeded the abilities of plain mortals. His sense of humor, often silly and borderline inappropriate for the moment, was fondly cherished by all who knew him. Ken never went to the party. He was the party. His contagious laugh, and gentle ribbing could soften the edges of any unease, bringing everyone into his magnetic and warm embrace. One always left Ken feeling good about the encounter of a loving kind - something we will all miss but never, ever forget.

Ken is survived by his loving and patient wife, Eileen, who worked diligently, and sometimes succeeded to keep him on the straight and narrow path. His devotion to his daughters, Chris Bevacqua and Heather Brennan, his grandchildren Kayla, Justin, Tommy, Henry, numerous nieces and nephews and surviving sister, Kathy bordered on a religion in which everyone else was welcome with open, loving arms.

Ken was born in Perth Amboy, NJ and resided for most of his adult life in Middletown, NJ. He was a proud Airforce veteran, football coach and member of the VFW Post 2179. He will be waked Friday, July 22 at Pflegers Funeral Home Middletown, NJ from 2:00 to 4:00pm and 7:00 to 9:00pm. A celebration mass will take place at St. Mary's of Middletown Saturday, July 23 at 10:30am. Donations will be accepted in support of Camp Jinka (a camp provided to children affected by the diagnosis of cancer) at https://secure3.4agoodcause.com/cfnj/gift.aspx?id=1&fundid=101> or by mail at Camp Jinka PO Box 508 Seagirt, NJ 08750.

For more information, to send condolences or for directions, please visit www.pflegerfh.com.