Robert E. Beam, 88, of South Whitehall Township, died April 15, 2014, in Lehigh Center, Lower Macungie Township.

He and his wife Elsie L. (Ruppert) Beam celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary last Sept. 4.

Born July 16, 1925, in Perth Amboy, N.J., he was the son of the late George Edward and Elsie Edna (Henry) Beam.

He faithfully and honorably served his country in the U.S. Army during World War II.

A civil draftsman for PPL, Allentown, for 46 years, he retired in 1990.

He was a member of Union Evangelical Lutheran Church, Schnecksville, Allen O. Delke American Legion Post 16, Slatington, Lehigh Lodge 326 and F.&A.M., Trexlertown.

He was a life member of Fairview Fire Company, Allentown.

He served three terms as South Whitehall Township commissioner from 1976-90.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by daughter, Carol L. Gilbert and her husband, Jeff, of Whitehall; sons George E. and his wife, Elaine, of Slatington, Thomas R. and his wife, Rose, of Orefield; brother the Rev. Eugene Beam of Harrisburg; sister Elsie Bobitz of Harrisburg; 11 grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.

He was predeceased by a son, David B., and brothers Harold and Franklin.

Expressions of sympathy may be recorded at heintzelmancares.com.

Contributions may be made to the church memorial fund c/o the funeral home, P.O. Box 196, Schnecksville, PA 18078-0196.

Arrangements made by Heintzelman Funeral Home Inc., Schnecksville.