Joseph L. Beane
Former owner of Hank’s Bakery-Stoneham
TEWKSBURY: Joseph L. Beane, a resident of Tewksbury for 30 years, passed away at the Winchester Hospital on Thursday, November 3, 2016 after a brave fight with lung cancer-one day short of his 86th birthday.
He was the beloved husband of Beverly A. (Buchanan/Kelleher) Beane, with whom he celebrated their 28th wedding anniversary in July.
Born in East Woburn on November 4, 1930, he was the son of the late Gwynne W. (Baron) Beane and the late Gertrude (McAvoy) Beane. Joe was raised in East Woburn attending Woburn schools, before moving to Stoneham in the middle of his sophomore year. By his senior year, he was Captain of the football team, president of Student Council and voted “Best All Around” and “Most Popular”. He graduated from Stoneham High School in 1949. Following high school, he attended Boston University where he received his B.S. Degree in Communications. In 1955, he enlisted in the U.S. Army and achieved the rank of Specialist Third Class.
Starting at the age of 14, Joe began his lifelong career of working in the Beane family business known as Hank’s Bakery, a Stoneham landmark since 1913. He took over the business in the 80’s from his father. Joe ran the bake shop and Bev ran the store. The Beane family took great pride in providing fine baked goods which included their legendary “Finnegans”. He passed on his work ethic and customer service skills to his kids-willingly or not. He retired from the bakery in 2001, and a few short years later joined the Market Basket Team in Tewksbury. His job title was Store Associate; however, he was better known as the “Mayor”, joking around with his fellow employees and chatting with the customers.
In addition to operating Hank’s Bakery, Joe served the Stoneham community as a member of the Conservation Commission and the Urban Renewal Committee.
Joe appreciated the natural beauty within the United states. Growing up his family spent many summers on Cape Ann whether it be on Long Beach or Good Harbor. He loved the ocean and learned how to bodysurf the waves. This technique he would pass on to both his children and his grandchildren as well. He was referred to as the “Big Kahuna” because he could ride a wave into the shoreline hitting his belly on the sand.
He and Bev liked taking back roads everywhere. They would pack the car and head out for several months at a time. Visiting family in Texas, Florida, and Montana were some of their favorite destinations. He was also a sports fan and enjoyed watching any of the New England Teams and College Football as well. He thoroughly enjoyed attending his grandchildren’s sporting events and activities. His booming voice could always be heard after the game ended, acknowledging his presence to the athletes.
In addition to his wife, Joe is survived by family members: David Beane of Portland, ME; Maryjo & Marty Stanek of Bozeman, MT; Dana Beane of Stoneham, MA; Linda & Ted Freeley of Roslindale, MA; Lisa Beane & Brian Morin of Tewksbury, MA; John & Doreen Kelleher of St. Augustine, FL; Nancy & Chuck Murdock of Dracut, MA; and Michael Kelleher of Tewksbury, MA; as well as numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren, and extended family members. He is preceded in death by his parents, his brother Arthur Beane; step-daughter Cathy Kelleher; and daughter-in-law Teresa Beane.
Relatives and friends will be received Saturday, Nov. 12 from 12-3 p.m. at the Farmer & Dee Funeral Home, 16 Lee St., Tewksbury. At Joe’s request, there are No Funeral Services. Kindly Omit Flowers. Donations in his memory may be made to the American Cancer Society, 30 Speen St., Framingham, MA 01701.