Roger Allen Beans, 93, of Valparaiso passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday, September 23, 2026. He was born October 7, 1932, in Vermont, Illinois to Amos T. & Velma F. (Stephens) Beans. At age 17 Roger began his career as a deckhand aboard a Mississippi riverboat guiding barges for Mobil Oil. He was able to transition these skills to become a merchant marine Chief Engineer for Inland Steel sailing on the iron ore boats of the Great Lakes for decades. His unassuming and low-profile personality served him well over the course of his life. He never required any recognition for the many deeds and accomplishments that could have been credited to him. And his soft-spoken nature contributed to his servant’s heart. It may be noted that he purchased only one new vehicle during his lifetime, a small truck.
On May 16, 1954, he married Vada Lou Kost who preceded him in death in 2016. Survivors include their children: Sue (Lester) Blythe of Valparaiso & Bruce (Dawn) Beans of Waterford, Michigan, daughter-in-law, Carol Beans of Colorado Springs, Colorado, grandchildren: Amy Blythe, David Blythe, Emily Ross, Caitlyn O’Connell, Adam Beans & Zachary Beans, 11 great-grandchildren and another on the way. He was also preceded in death by his oldest son, Ross Beans, and three brothers: Amos, Phillip & Rankin Beans.
A visitation will be held Friday, October 23, 2026, from 10 – 11 am at Moeller Funeral Home, Valparaiso with memorial service beginning at 11:00 am and private burial to follow at Angelcrest Cemetery.
GUESTBOOK
I remember Roger well for his engineering skill, sound judgement, and calm demeanor in the face of challenging situations. I'm sure the Lord has welcomed him. I was sorry to read that Ross had passed previously. -Dan Cornillie
He was one of the good guys and will be missed greatly. Thinking of all of you. -Ellen Tingley
