Obituary of James D. Beach

James D. “Jim” Beach “Longtime Band Man” Olean, NY—James D. “Jim” Beach of 417 Paragon Avenue died Saturday (January 5, 2008) in the Olean General Hospital. Born December 2, 1942 in Syracuse, he was the son of Walter and Helen Davis Beach. He was married to Susan A. Little who survives. Mr. Beach was a graduate of Onondaga Valley Academy in Syracuse and later received a Bachelor of Arts degree in music education from Ithaca College. He continued his studies at Eastman School of Music in Rochester. His teaching career began with the Olean City School District in 1965. The majority of his career was with the former Allegany Central School, later the Allegany-Limestone Central School District, for over 30 years where he directed the elementary and middle school concert bands as well as having started the jazz program there, retiring in 1997. Under his direction, the jazz band was recognized as one of the leading jazz bands in New York State. Mr. Beach was a NASCAR and Buffalo Bills fan as well as a weather enthusiast. He enjoyed vegetable gardening and he loved animals, especially household pets. He could often be seen riding his Moped around town and he enjoyed his yearly visits to Fort Myers Beach, FL, and to Land O’ Lakes, FL to see the Koens. He was a social member of the St. Stephen’s Club, the Pulaski Club, the Christopher Columbus Lodge and the Olean VFW. Surviving besides his wife are 1 brother David (Judy) Beach of Syracuse; 2 nephews Christopher Beach and Scott Beach; 1 niece Lisa Mawson; 2 sisters-in-law Kathi (Jim) Bradley of Cuba and Meg (Tim) Koen of Land O’ Lakes, FL; 2 brothers-in-law Kevin (Sue) Little of Portville and Jon (Jackie) Little of Clarence Center as well as several nieces and nephews including Sammie Koen and Thomas Koen, both of whom held a special place in his heart and a close friend, Bill Fancher of Olean. In addition to his parents he was predeceased by a stepmother Janet Beach. Private memorial services will be held at a later date with burial at the convenience of the family. Memorials may be made to the Cattaraugus County SPCA 1644 Olean Hinsdale Rd. Olean, NY 14760. Arrangements are under the direction of the Casey, Halwig & Hartle Funeral Home, Olean.