Strengthened by his life-long faith commitment, Eric left us all-too-soon, at age 57, on Feb 17th.
Eric's early years were spent in Wenatchee, the third of five 'Bean Sprouts', also known as 'Jay & Sue Bean's full house' of children. As a high school senior in 1977, he assumed the role of Charley Wykeham, dancing and singing in the WHS production of "Where's Charley?" Later at Pacific Lutheran University, he charmed another PLU student and musician, Marie Houglum, by assuming another role. He very earnestly helped her communicate with her 'secret buddy', only later admitting that he, Eric, had been her 'secret friend' all along.
Over the next 35 years, their shared love grew to include sons Nate and Josh, and sixteen years ago, daughter Elsa. His greatest roles during these years have been that of a father, coach, and role-model for his family, friends, church family, and his many co-workers over the years.
Eric was proud of the software products and teams he built and managed during his career, especially during his last 8 years as VP at Clarity Health Services. Prior to Clarity, Eric managed products for Captaris, Aventail, PictureIQ, ImageX, Adobe, and Aldus.
Eric's education included an MBA from the University of Washington, MSE from Seattle University, and BS in Math from Pacific Lutheran University.
Eric's joy in sustaining teamwork, while striving for excellence, was also found in his dedication to his musical colleagues within 'The Lyric Arts Ensemble.' Their vocal creations enriched his life, and ours. The legacy of his smile, wisdom, and compassion will forever fill our lives. For that, we are grateful. "Singing with you is a gift - suspended for the present." - The Lyric Arts Ensemble
Eric is survived by his wife Marie, sons Nathaniel and Joshua, and his daughter Elsa. He is also survived by his father Jay and 'bonus-Mom' Connie Bean, of East Wenatchee; sisters Cici (Randy) Asplund of Wenatchee, and Martha (Ralph) of Seattle; brothers Jeff (Sue) of Normandy Park and Scott (Jennifer) of Seattle, by his Aunt Nadine (Alex), of Washington DC, and by Marie's family.
A funeral for Eric will be held Sunday, March 6, 2016 at 3:00 pm, at Saint Andrew's Lutheran Church in Bellevue. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts can be sent in memory of Eric Bean to Lutheran World Relief, www.lwr.org.
to Eric's family - my sincere condolences on your loss. I worked with Eric at ImageX and while I lost touch with him over the years, was saddened to hear of his passing. He was a intelligent and kind soul. I unfortunately couldn't make it to his service yesterday but I did want to express my sympathies. May he rest in peace.
~mi-la delaney
There are not enough praises to do Eric justice for the life he led. Eric was a great friend, wonderful father, mentor, coach, administrator and a contributor to so many people in so many ways. I spent many days and nights with Eric coaching our boys in Lacrosse through the years. His dedication to the sport, and to the league, was humbling and inspiring. In the early years of Issaquah Youth Lacrosse, Eric's contribution was a huge part to it's overwhelming success, and the success it has to date. His commitment to the league and the sport was addictive and I found myself wanting to do more, and be more like Eric. I believe part of our legacy is based on the type of kids we raise, and the family we create, and Nate, Josh and Elsa are shining examples of the kind of family, Eric and Marie created. One of my fondest memories, and most surprising of Eric, was him singing karaoke at my 50th birthday party. Who knew? That was a side of Eric I had never seen before, from coaching Lacrosse with him. My family will always love the Bean family, They're all just great people! I've met many of Eric and Marie's extended family, and I can honestly say I've never met a Bean I didn't like and my family extends our love to all of you, and our thoughts and prayers are with you all. We had many occasions over the years to spend time with Eric and his family and it will always be cherished memories, and more to come. There is no doubt in my mind that Eric will want us to celebrate his life with love and laughter in his remembrance. Anyone who knew Eric well, can attest to his love of fine wines. So I ask you to raise your glass, and toast to his life, and shower his family with love and support. All the best to Eric and his family! The Nelson Family
Eric was one of the true GREAT MEN! His spirit, heart, words and actions all matched. He walked the walk! I met him when he came out with his son Josh to a new sport to the region, Lacrosse. He jumped in to help from moment one. Knowing nothing, he just wanted to help. He took on responsibility then more and more. Eric became a coach, director and board member of Issaquah Youth Lacrosse. One of the foundational members who helped build the largest youth Lacrosse organization in the Northwest.
I am blessed to call Eric a friend. I experience him being a loving father, a loving husband, coach, administrator, counselor, man of faith, singer/performer, and always keeping his priorities in what mattered most. A great example to me! I love this man!
I believe Eric will not hesitate in jumping in and going to work to bless the lives of others in the next life until we join him again. And we will all get to join him in a glorious reunion and get a big Eric Bean hug!
I love the Bean family. Love and hugs to you all.
Matthew Balkman
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