William R. "Bill" Beamish, 79, passed away on July 8, 2009 in North Miami Beach, FL with his loving family by his side from complications associated with prostate cancer. Bill was born in Midland, Ontario, Canada on January 16, 1930 a son of the late Richard and Marjorie Smith Beamish. Bill immigrated to the United States after serving in the Canadian Coast Guard, settling in New Haven, CT. In 1960 Bill joined WAVZ, becoming a popular morning disc jockey and member of the WAVZ-AM "Straight Shooters". In 1965, Bill starred as Space Commander 8, a children's program on WNHC. After a successful career as a radio personality, Bill went to work for Warner Brothers Records and became a record promoter for Warner-Elektra-Atlantic or Warner Music Group. In addition to his work in radio, TV, and music, Bill and his wife Phyllis owned and operated the Double B Boutique, a trendy clothing store in downtown New Haven. In 1982, he returned to WAVZ as a morning host and spent the next decade working for a variety of local stations. An avid golfer, Bill could often be found at Grassy Hill Country Club in Orange where he was a member. In 1999, Bill and his wife Phyllis retired to North Miami Beach, Fl. where they spent the majority of their time playing golf and enjoying the palm trees. In addition to being an avid golfer, Bill enjoyed spending time with his family, especially his four grandchildren. He will be remembered not only for his infectious humor and wit but also for the kindness and generosity he shared with friends and strangers alike. Bill is survived by his beloved wife of 58 years, Phyllis Monaco Beamish of Hollywood, Fl, a devoted daughter, Marjorie Bartozzi and son-in-law Vincent Bartozzi of Chevy Chase, MD., treasured grandchildren, Vincent William Bartozzi of New York, NY and Washington, D.C., Cherie P. Bartozzi of Potomac, Md., Richard L. Bartozzi, and Lucy C. Bartozzi, both of Chevy Chase, MD., and many other fans and friends. He was preceded in death by his son Richard Beamish and his brother Manly Beamish. His funeral procession will leave the PORTO FUNERAL HOME, 234 Foxon Rd. (Rte 80), East Haven Saturday morning at 10:30. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in Our Lady of Pompeii Church at 11:00. Interment will follow in All Saints Cemetery. Friends may call FRIDAY from 6-8 PM. Please omit flowers. Memorial contributions may be made to VISTA Hospice Care, payable to VISTA Charitable Funds, 16800 N.W. 2nd Ave., Suite 400, North Miami Beach, Fl., 33169
