Paul R. “Dick” Beem Obituary (1939 - 2026)

Born Sep 13, 1939, Paul R. “Dick” Beem attended Zion-benton High School in Zion, IL. View the obituary, post a memory, or share a photo about Paul R. “dick” Beem.

Graduation Year	Class of 1957
Date of Birth	Sep 13, 1939
Date of Passing	Jan 04, 2026
About	(no additional information)
Events	Paul R. “Dick” Beem, of Pleasant Prairie, WI, and longtime resident of Zion, IL, passed away on January 4, 2026, at Vitas Ruth Hospice Center, in West Allis, WI, at the age of 86. Born on September 13, 1939, in Waukegan, IL, Dick was a proud graduate of Zion Benton Township High School, Class of 1957. On June 17, 1961, Dick married his beloved wife, Laurel Jane Richards, in Zion, IL. Together, they built a life centered on faith, family, and community. In April, 1962, Dick joined the U.S. Army Reserves where he served for six years. Assigned to kitchen duty, he learned many cooking skills he blessed his family with for many years. In 1966 Dick realized his need for forgiveness and accepted Jesus Christ as his Savior. With confidence we can declare, “Because He lives, Dick will live again also.” John 14:19 Dick was a devoted member of Grace Missionary Church (GMC), where he found joy and purpose in worship, fellowship and serving others. Growing up at GMC, Dick followed his father’s footsteps in his love and commitment to the African ministries of the Mahon Mission, now known as the Zion Evangelical Ministries of Africa (ZEMA). He served in various capacities (including chairman) on the ZEMA Board for many years. He and Laurel made several extended work trips to ZEMA’s Sunbury Christian Camp assisting missionaries with cleaning, food prep and general maintenance projects. In 2005, Dick was recognized as a lifetime member of the ZEMA Board. A true entrepreneur at heart, Dick owned and operated Dick’s Carpet Service and several other businesses throughout his career. By far, his favorite job was as a bus driver for ZBTHS after he “retired”. He was known for his strong work ethic, integrity, and commitment to generous service. In 2007 Dick and Laurel bought a Ford 350 and a 5 th Wheel, and traveled with S.O.W.E.R.s, Servants on Wheels Ever Ready. They traveled for 3½ years volunteering at various Christian camps and convention centers. They even did a stint at Camp Zion with their dear friends, Howard and Lynn Swank. Dick’s life was marked by his love for the Lord, his wife, and his family. His unwavering faith, generous spirit, and genuine kindness touched the lives of everyone he met. His legacy lives on in the values he instilled in his family, the friendships he nurtured, and the countless acts of service he offered to his community. Whether sharing a laugh over coffee, cheering on his grandchildren, or lending a helping hand, Dick’s warmth and compassion left a lasting impression. His memory will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know him, and his presence will be cherished in the hearts of his family and friends forever. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.