Jack M Beem

Jack M. Beem, a beloved family member and friend, as well as an accomplished career military man, died on April 23 in Pensacola at the age of 86. He was a Pensacola resident since 1976, had many friends both here and out-of-state, and belonged to the local Masonic Lodge. Jack was born in Indianapolis on March 22, 1929, and was raised Seymour, a small southern Indiana town. He graduated from Hanover College (IN), where he met Mariellen Beem who would become his wife of 60 years. They raised three sons, Kurt, Karl and Jon, while he served as a U.S. Naval officer and aviator. As a helicopter and S2 pilot, he served in anti-submarine warfare squadrons, becoming commander of such a unit. He did sea duty on the aircraft carriers Intrepid, Wasp, Essex, Guam and New Orleans, including service as air officer and operations officer. After attending the Naval War College, he served as executive officer of Roosevelt Roads Naval Station in Puerto Rico, then among the largest military installations. He retired from CNET as a commander in Pensacola, his second tour of duty here. As an aviator he recovered Gemini astronauts, rescued Cuban refugees in the Straits of Florida, and aided Peruvian earthquake

victims in difficult flying conditions. As an officer, he was respected and well-liked by his superiors, peers and those who served under him. Jack was a devoted husband and father, taking an active role in the raising of his sons. He was a beloved grandfather. He is survived by his wife, Mariellen, sons, Kurt and Karl, and granddaughters, Chaynee and Leila.