James Bean, age 88 of Watertown, passed away on March 23, 2016. Beloved husband of the late Helen (Pappas) Bean.
Loving father of William Bean & his partner Gregory Wagoner, Elaine Bean and James Bean & his wife Maureen. Devoted grandfather of Jacqueline, Nicole, Brendan, Erin, Conor and Patrick, and great grandfather of Madilyn. Also survived by many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. Dear brother of 16 siblings, surviving siblings are Audrey Stevenson, Eleanor Dusablon, & Paul Bean. Jim grew up in Inman Square and loved to recount stories of mischief and fun with his many siblings and friends.
He started his 40-year career with the B&M Railroad as a mailboy and worked his way up to Vice President of Marketing. He loved the railroad, and especially enjoyed his travels in a private railroad car from Maine to the Midwest. Jim was a passionate and outspoken member of many Watertown committees in later life.
His most beloved project involved transforming the Arsenal into a highly successful center of commerce, research, and the arts.
Funeral from the Nardone Funeral Home, 373 Main St. Watertown on Tuesday at 8 a.m. followed by a 9 a.m. Funeral Mass at St. Patrick’s Church, Watertown. Burial with Military Honors in Ridgelawn Cemetery. Visiting hours Monday 4-7 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Historical Society of Watertown, 28 Marshall St., Watertown, MA 02472 www.historicalsocietyofwatertownma.org
Jim was full of life, spirit and heart.
He was a valued member of the Watertown Arsenal Development Corporation.
He served Watertown in many capacities.
He was well known and well liked.
Watertown will miss him!
John S. Airasian