Jeffrey “Jeff” William Beem, 61, of New Haven, passed away on June 26 after a long battle with cancer of the tongue/mouth. Jeff was born in New Haven to Mary (Camp) Beem on Sept. 26, 1961.

Jeff graduated from Madison’s Daniel Hand High School in 1980. He was an avid baseball player and served in the USMC1 for four years. He went to work at Dr. Rose’s in Madison for several years and later began his lawn service, “Green Toe,” with his raccoon hat “tailing” behind him.

He was a friend to many, a real jokester! Jeff took advantage of living along Long Island Sound by fishing, collecting an assortment of shellfish, and crabbing. His most abundant catch was the 98 blue crabs that he, along with his Aunt Nancy, caught up East River one October afternoon. Jeff portrayed Santa at Christmas, always with his hat in hand and a big smile on his face. His gift to everyone was always socks. He enjoyed his family most, especially the younger ones. The neighborhood parades were festive, especially when all his nieces and nephews dressed as doctors and nurses, and Jeff was the patient! He had an inspiring sense of humor and a kind heart.

He was predeceased by his parents, John Beem and Mary (Beem) Juba; his brother Paul Beem; and maternal grandparents, William and Catherine Camp. He is survived by his aunt Nancy Camp Farnan; sister Terry Beem Duffy (Patrick); brothers, Kevin Beem and Raymond Hill; sisters, Leslie Hill and Tracy Hill Nirschl (Fred); nephew Chris Kyttle (Tiffany); niece Tracy Kyttle; nephews, Trenton Thomas, Peter Redik and Daniel Beem (Kelly); great-nephews, August and Tyler Beem; niece Alissa Beem Thomas (Ryan); and great-nieces, Erin and Dylan Thomas; along with numerous other related cousins.

A Celebration of Life will be held later this summer with family and friends. To sign the online guestbook, please visit hawleylincolnmemorial.com.