Kathryn Beam

Kathryn “Katie” Beam, 83, of Mercer, formerly of Star City, IN, passed away on Monday, October 12, 2026, in her home.

Mrs. Beam was born on January 28, 1943, in Chicago, IL, a daughter of the late Robert and Helen (Kurth) Froehling. She was raised Catholic and graduated from a private high school.

Katie was a longtime employee of the former McGill’s in Valparaiso, IN. Upon the sale of the business, she went to work at the former Eaton’s Corp. in Winamac, IN.

Katie was happiest when she was with her great-grandchildren and tending to her rose bushes. In her spare time, she enjoyed painting Christmas ornaments and playing games online with her family and friends.

Her husband, Randy Beam, whom she married on March 2, 1963, passed away on November 5, 2016.

She is survived by two children, Arthur Beam, of Indiana, and Vicki Leviner (John), of Mercer; three grandchildren, Anthony Beam (Tiffany), Marita Vega (Sonny), and Ceara Hoffman (Austin); six great-grandchildren, Xyla, Ian, Ares, Octavia, Astrid and Galeck; five sisters, Bobbie Giesler, Judy Dinkleman, Marie Cannon (Jeff), Johanna Stayton (Lance), and Ellen Taylor (Ben); and a brother, Bob “Bud” Froehling (Kathy).

In addition to her parents and husband, Katie was preceded in death by a brother, Jeff Froehling.

In keeping with Katie’s wishes, there are no services.