Leader accomplished much for Ewa Beach community
Charles R. “Dick” Beamer had lived nearly six decades before moving to Ewa Beach in 1977, but his accomplishments in the rapidly changing West Oahu neighborhood in the three decades since earned him an honorary title among old-timers: the mayor of Ewa Beach.
Services are being held today for Beamer, 92, who died March 29 at his home.
Beamer’s mark on Ewa Beach was indelible.
He was a member of the Ewa Beach Neighborhood Board for more than a quarter-century and served as its leader for many of those years. He was also the longtime president of the Ewa Beach Community Association and helped establish the community’s annual Easter Egg Hunt, Halloween Bash and Christmas Parade, all events that continue to this day.
Among his favorite activities was working with the Ewa Beach Lions Club, which he joined shortly after he arrived in Ewa Beach. He organized the Leo
Club at Campbell High School, and in 1987 he was appointed chairman of the Hawaii Lions International Youth Camp. In 2003, at 85, Beamer was still a camp director hosting youths from abroad.
Beamer also served on the board of directors for the Hale Pono Boys and Girls Club in Ewa Beach for more than two decades, and was a community volunteer for the Ewa Weed and Seed effort for nearly 10 years.
He twice received the KOA Award, given for leadership and community service in the West Oahu community.
Friends said he also advocated for a variety of community benefits, including a new Ewa Beach post office, widening and lighting of Fort Weaver Road, bike paths, walkways and fire hydrants, and even a moratorium having airport officials prohibiting night flights over the region.
“Dick Beamer was truly dedicated to making Ewa Beach a better place for our children and families,” said state Sen. Will Espero.
Born in Anderson, Ind., Beamer received the Bronze Star for meritorious service during the Korean War.
Beamer and his late wife, Rena V. Avery, had no children. He is survived by, among other friends in the community, Eileen and Coby Lynn, who helped care for him when he was ill; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
A service will take place at 11:15 a.m. today at Borthwick Mortuary, mauka chapel. Visitation begins at 9:30. Burial will follow at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific, Punchbowl. Casual attire. Flowers are welcome. Donations may be made to the Ewa Beach Lions Club and mailed to Ewa Beach Lions Club, P.O. Box 2044, Ewa Beach, HI 96706.
