Our thoughts and prayers are with John’s family as they face this tragic situation. No one should ever have to deal with something like this.

The news hit me hard. Coach Beam played at Mesa in the late 70s and often returned to visit with me and the football staff. I was just with him on Thursday at the 3C2A Fall Conference, and today a terrible act took the life of a great man. He had a big personality, supported countless student athletes, and guided so many coaches and athletic administrators throughout his career. 

We lost a truly good one today.

John always put students first. He was a father figure to many, and I can only imagine how deeply this is being felt across the Bay Area.

Rest in peace, John.

Ryan Shumaker 
Dean, Athletic Director
San Diego Mesa College


John Beam. Once an Olympian. Always an Olympian.