Clifford Martin Bean

Clifford Bean, 89, a lifelong resident of Goleta, died peacefully on January 21, 2013 at Buena Vista Care Center.

Clifford was born was born March 30, 1923, on Cathedral Oaks Road near Patterson Avenue. He attended local schools, but left early to work in the local walnut-packing plants. He collected and sold bottles, scrap tin and other metals during the war, making enough to purchase a home on El Sueno Drive. It was from there he could usually be found with a big smile on his face as he sold fire wood and befriended many people.

Clifford believed in being neighborly; when he wasn’t using one of his yellow cabs to transport wood, he would drive elderly neighbors and assist them with their grocery shopping. He was a long-time volunteer at Grace Lutheran Church’s weekend food distribution site. Even after he was unable to drive, he had other volunteers transport him so he could continue assisting.

An avid train-lover from a young age, Clifford enjoyed hanging out at the Morton Bay Fig tree near the SB train station, counting train cars and making friends.

Clifford leaves a legacy of service, resourcefulness and joy in the little things.