James Max Beham

Max James Beham passed away on August 17th, 2020. He was born on March 13th. 1925. He grew up in Toledo, Ohio. The Depression forced the family to relocate to New York City, where he resided for 53 years. He then graduated from St. Barbara Parocial School. Max was drafted into the Army and trained at Ft.Bragg North Carolina as an Artilleryman, and sent to North Africa, as well as Italy. Serving on the Monte Cassino Line, he participated in the invasion of Anzio. Behind enemy lines South of Rome, the 5th Army captured Rome on June 5th, 1944. Max was in combat until the end of the War. The day the war ended he was sent home, while earning Three Bronze Battle Stars, an a European & African Victory Metal, not mentioning several other awards such as Good Conduct. He entered into the meat business, and stayed at that location in Queens, N.Y.C. for 37 years. He met the love of his life at a picnic, and married her in January 1949. Three wonderful children completed their family; Lorriane, Ruth, & James. All children were college educated. Max is survived by three Grandchildren; Brian, James, and Amanda. He is also survived by his Sister, Carol, and many other relatives. He is preceded in death by his brother. His wife persuaded Max to take Cha Cha dance lessons, and many other lessons for many years at The Byrnes & Swanson Dance Studio in Brooklyn, N.Y.C. A talent scout observed their dancing at the Waldorf Astoria Usaba Dance. The scout asked them to perform on a new T.V. show called "Step This Way". The Judges were Grizzele McKenzie, Gretchen McKenzie, Gretchen Wayler, and Shelia Mc'Ray from the musical "Oklahoma". Wood Herman and his band played for their performance on T.V. Max & Ruth are lifetime members at V.F.W. Post 4051. They dined and danced together since 1984, on almost every Friday with their most delightful friends. Max practiced his faith and prayed to the Lord daily, while calling him to provide peace and guidance in all situations. We will miss his sense of humor, love of life and family, as well as her generosity. Some will miss his presence at the Poker Table. Funeral Services will be held at Mountain View Mortuary, 2350 Montebello Square Drive, Thursday, the 20th at 11AM. Visitation will begin at 10AM. Burial is to take Place at Pikes Peak National Cemetery on Friday, the 21st, at 9AM. In lieu of flowers, please make donations out to V.F.W. Post 4051 and the Salvation Army.