John Anthony "Jack" Bean

Jack Bean, born on July 27, 1937, in Negaunee, Michigan, peacefully passed away on August 22, 2026, after a sudden illness in Clearwater, Florida. A ceremony will be held in the Chapel of Mt Olivet Memorial Park in Zion, Illinois will be held on October 2, 2026 at 10:00 am before he will be laid to rest along side his beloved wife, Billie.

 Jack's journey through life was marked by resilience, love, and a profound sense of community and family. He was the cherished son of Henry Bean and Marguerite Baratono. Preceeded in death by two wives, June Hintsala and Billie Faye Peters, and his special partner in later years, Betty Ann Boyd. His brothers, Robert and Bernard, his sister Marion, and his parents also preceded him. 

Jack's legacy lives on through his extensive and loving family, including his 8 children: Derrick Bean (Kathy), Julie Bean Carloss (Michael), Michael Bean (Gudelia), Michael Ratchford (Dawn), Gregory Bean (Jenny), Carla Amann (Mike), Kenneth Ratchford (Darla-deceased), and Anthony Bean (Angie). He was blessed with numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren who brought him endless joy. He is also survived by his sister, Ann Hoitenga (Bob), and many dear friends. 

Jack's early years saw him marrying June Hintsala, with whom he shared a decade and four beautiful children. he then found love again with Billie Faye Peters and together they blended and raised her 3 children, his 4 children and welcomed another together. They remained devoted to each other for nearly 40 years until her passing in 2009. Later, Jack's path intertwined with Betty Ann Boyd, with whom he shared many good years before caring for her in her extended illness until her passing in 2019.

 Professionally, Jack was a dedicated worker who spent many years at Johnson Outboard in Waukegan, Illinois. When the plant closed, he and his family embraced a new chapter in Carencro, Louisiana, where Jack managed A&L Bolt and Screw Company. Eventually, he and Billie returned to Zion, Illinois, before settling into a well-deserved retirement in Clearwater, Florida. 

A man of deep faith, Jack was a devoted Catholic who attended mass at St. Cecelia Catholic Church in Clearwater. His commitment to his community was evident from his active high school clubs and positions and throughout his life. Later in his active membership at South Gate Mobile Home Park, where he generously looked after others. 

Jack was a man of many talents and interests. He was an avid reader, especially fond of Westerns, and a skilled cribbage player. His love for pasties and fried catfish was well-known among family and friends. He was truly a jack of all trades, with a particular knack for carpentry and home improvement. He loved walking the neighborhood and riding his golf cart, stopping to visit with others. 

Above all, Jack will be remembered for his kindness that touched countless lives. He was thoughtful and attentive, always ready to lend an ear and a helping hand. Jack's independence was a testament to his strength, allowing him to remain self-reliant until his final days. 

In honoring his memory, the family suggests each of us reach out to help others reflecting Jack’s selfless spirit and dedication to helping others. 

Jack's life was a tapestry of love, resilience, and unwavering kindness. He will be dearly missed and forever celebrated by all who had the privilege of knowing him.