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I met Jim Beckman on my first day at Writing Class. He was half way through Amour et Vengeance, his World War II/French Resistance novel. Over the next few weeks, I learned he graduated from Yale with a degree in engineering. Built a construction business from the ground up. Created art. Sculptures and things. But. more importantly, I found that I liked him. Every week, he walked in to class smiling, happy with the world and full of stories. But, his face lit up the brightest, when he talked about his beloved Marlene.
Marlene, his wife of 29 years.
I watched and listened, amused at first. And then, as time went on, I became impressed that one man could love one woman so much… so long.
I’ve known Jim and Marlene for five years now.
8 comments
Jim works an idea like a dog works a bone. He grabs it, shakes it, chews it, tears it apart, disassembles it, punctures it, reassembles it and masters it. He is also one of the most self-effacing people I have had the pleasure of knowing.
You are so right! Thanks Charles. We miss you!
What a great portrait of Jim. He and Marlene are an amazing couple. I miss Jim’s weekly stories. He always has a happy face.
You are, as always, sweet! Jim will be thrilled you commented on his post!
All so true, Karen. I love Jim and Marlene. They are a delight!!!
Yes, they are!
I had the pleasure of their company in Sardinia – and before I had even read your article I called him the Renaissance Man!! And you have described him to a T!
He and Marlene were wonderful and looked after me – both are strong riders and have the wittiest senses of humour! I miss them already!
How delightful! Jim and Marlene are wonderful people!