Col. William James Beach

Winsted:  Colonel (Ret.) William James Beach passed away July 8, 2015 at the age of 94.  Born in Winsted, he graduated from The Gilbert School in 1939 and attended Bay Path College before enlisting as a flight training cadet and entering the War in 1942, flying several missions including the Normandy invasion dropping paratroopers and pulling gliders into combat.  During the Korean conflict, he served as a U.S. military advisor and liaison to U.S. ally, General Chaing Kai-shek and the Nationalist Chinese army in Formosa.  After multiple successive assignments, he finished his Air Force career as a senior logistical officer in theater during the Vietnam conflict.  Colonel Beach retired after 31 years of meritorious service and returned to Winsted to enjoy his family and retirement.  He leaves behind his beloved wife, Kathryn (LaPlaca), his sons, William and Michael, grandchildren, Sarah, Lauren, Avery and Philip and a great granddaughter, Vivian.  A funeral mass will be celebrated at St. Joseph Church in Winsted on Tuesday, July 14, at 11:00 AM. Burial will follow with full military honors in St. Joseph new Cemetery.  There are no calling hours.  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The Wounded Warrior Project, PO Box 758517, Topeka, KS 66675.  To leave an online condolence, please visit www.maloneyfuneral.com.

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