Kay M. Beam, of Warsaw, passed away at 11:11 a.m. on Thursday, Jan. 11, 2024, at Mason Health and Rehabilitation Center in Warsaw at the age of 82.
She was born on Jan. 22, 1941, in Richmond, Ind., to Mabel Clara Martin Spraker and Lester Lee Spraker. Kay graduated from Dixon Township High School in 1959. In her youth, Kay loved to show steers in 4-H and during her high school days she enjoyed being the head majorette. In 1960, she married Robert E. Beam and they were blessed with three children during their 21-year marriage.
Kay worked throughout her life. In the 1970s, she worked at the Gatke Corporation, later at Kline’s Department Store in Warsaw and for Miller’s Health Systems in the administrative offices. Her favorite job of all time was simply being Mom, that in itself was always full-time 24-7. Always there for her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, a selfless and loving lady who put their wants and needs first. Kay was a wonderful den mother for many years as her sons grew up in Boy Scouts. She loved being a host to all of her children’s friends, and many enjoyed pizza at the Beam home! Kay was definitely a mom to many.
She loved to go bowling, was a wonderful cook and excellent baker. Kay especially enjoyed spending time with friends and family over a good game of cards. She also loved her moments alone sewing and crocheting and working on various crafts and projects. Always a heart for service, she volunteered at Kosciusko Community Hospital in Warsaw for many years and was a long-time member of Leesburg Methodist Church. Kay had a great sense of humor and nothing ever fazed her as she was always quick with a witty comeback. She will forever be loved and remembered as a wonderful mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and friend to many.
She leaves behind two sons, Michael (Catherine) Beam, Odessa, Fla.; Brian Beam, Indianapolis; daughter, Michelle (Preston) Lathrop, Fort Collins, Colo.; and her beloved seven grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents.
Kay’s life will be celebrated with a service at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 16 at Redpath-Fruth Funeral Home and officiated by Pastor Rob Seewald. A graveside service will follow at Oakwood Cemetery in Warsaw. Friends and family may visit prior to the service from 9 to 11 a.m.
Memorial donations may be directed to Indiana Breast Cancer Awareness Trust, P.O. Box 8212, Evansville, IN 47716.
Online condolences may be sent through the funeral home’s website at www.redpathfruthfuneralhome.com.