OAKLAND – Legendary football coach John Beam was known for his unwavering dedication to helping others, both on and off the field. He never cared about the number of wins he accumulated, but rather the number of lives he impacted. And on Saturday, at the Henry J. Kaiser Center, his success in that endeavor was on full display as thousands gathered to honor his legacy.
Beam, who passed away at the age of 83, was a beloved figure in the Oakland community. He spent over five decades coaching at various high schools in the city, including Fremont High School, McClymonds High School, and Skyline High School. He was also the head coach of the Oakland Dynamites semi-pro team and the Oakland Invaders of the USFL.
But it wasn’t just his coaching skills that made Beam stand out. He was a mentor, a father figure, and a friend to countless young men and women who crossed his path. He believed in the power of sports to transform lives and used football as a tool to teach his players valuable life lessons.
One of his former players, Marcus Peters, who now plays for the Baltimore Ravens, said, “Coach Beam was more than just a coach to us. He was a role model, a mentor, and a father figure. He taught us the importance of discipline, hard work, and perseverance. He believed in us when no one else did and pushed us to be the best versions of ourselves.”
And that sentiment was echoed by many others who spoke at the memorial service. Beam’s impact went far beyond the football field. He was a pillar of the community, always willing to lend a helping hand to those in need. He organized food drives, mentored at-risk youth, and provided guidance to anyone who sought it.
His daughter, Lisa Beam, said, “My father’s legacy is not just about the wins and championships. It’s about the lives he touched and the hearts he changed. He was a selfless man who always put others before himself. And today, as we gather to honor him, we can see the impact he had on so many people.”
The memorial service was a celebration of Beam’s life and his contributions to the community. It was a testament to the love and respect he garnered from everyone who knew him. Former players, colleagues, and friends shared stories and memories, each one highlighting Beam’s kindness, generosity, and unwavering dedication to his players.
Current Skyline High School head coach, Joe Bates, who played for Beam in the 1980s, said, “Coach Beam was a legend in Oakland. He was a father figure to me and so many others. He taught us the value of hard work and instilled in us a sense of pride for our community. He will be deeply missed, but his legacy will live on through all of us.”
The outpouring of love and support at the memorial service was a testament to the impact Beam had on the lives of those around him. He may have passed away, but his legacy will continue to inspire future generations.
As the ceremony came to a close, the crowd rose to their feet for a standing ovation, a fitting tribute to a man who dedicated his life to making a difference in the lives of others. John Beam may have been known as a legendary football coach, but his true legacy lies in the countless lives he touched and the hearts he forever changed.
