Long Valley Fire Chief, Road Supervisor Dies at 68

During his time in Long Valley, Ralph Beam knew about every nook and cranny the town had to offer.

The longtime resident died recently at the age of 68.

Born in Morristown, Beam lived most of his life in Long Valley before moving to Independence Township eight years ago.

He was the road supervisor for the Washington Township Department of Public Works, where he worked for 35 years before retiring in 2002. He was a lifetime member of the Long Valley Fire Company and past chief.

Beam was an avid hunter and fisherman, and loved spending time with his grandchildren.

He is survived by his wife, Joan; two daughters; and four grandchildren.

Memorial donations may be made to Long Valley Fire Company No. 1, 5 Fairview Avenue, P.O. Box 234, Long Valley, NJ 07853 or Atlantic Health System, Carol G. Simon Cancer Center, 100 Madison Avenue, Morristown, NJ 07960.