James George Beeman, Sr.

James George Beeman, Sr, 89 of Winona, died peacefully at his home on Friday, October 11, 2013 with his family by his side.Jim was born August 8, 1924 in Winona to Leslie Harold and Alice Irene (Palmer) Beeman. He attended Winona Area Schools. He served in the United States Army from 1943-1945 during World War II; serving in Europe, Africa and the Middle East. In 1949 he married Theresa Mary Slaby, together they had five children and were later divorced, but remained lifelong friends. Jim worked as a heavy equipment operator for the Winona County Shops and then Dunn Blacktop, retiring at age 62. He was a proud member of the Operating Engineers Local 49. Jim enjoyed fishing, crossword puzzles, cooking, baking and most importantly, spending time with his family. He will be greatly missed by his family.He is survived by his children, James Jr. of Fountain City, Doug (Sheryl) of Goodview, Mary (Steve) Strelow of Winona, Susanne (Dwight) Koehler of Minnesota City and Jon (Amy) of Homer; six grandchildren, Cari (Nick) Beyerstedt, Wendy (Mo) Vafaie, Marcy (Dave) Marks, Jeff (Amy) Koehler, Jamey (Jodi) Koehler and Julie (Paul Zolondek) Koehler; and 19 great-grandchildren, Benjamin, Bella, Bradley, Allison, Brianna, Kallie, Leyla, Jase, Parisa, Alex, Alivia, Celeste, Sabrina, Katelyn, Sydney, Madalynn, Elle, Tracy and Abby.Jim was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Dolores; ex-wife and friend, Theresa and grandson, Matt Strelow.Memorial Service will be held 3 p.m., Sunday, October 13, 2013 at Hoff Celebration of Life Center in Goodview with Monsignor Richard Colletti officiating. Burial will follow at Woodlawn Cemetery where Full Military Honors will be provided by VFW Post 1287. Visitation will be 1 p.m. until the time of the service.Please share a memory of Jim and sign his online guestbook at www.hofffuneral.com.