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William Francis Bane
William Francis Bane passed away February 20th, 2014 at 9:40 p.m. surrounded by his devoted family. A lifelong resident of Indianapolis, Bill led a noteworthy and successful life both privately and publicly. He was a loving and devoted husband to his wife, a caring and nurturing father to his sons and Pawpaw to his grandchildren and great grandchildren. Bill was also an admired community leader and entrepreneur who led a successful business for over half his life, and who rose to a position of prominence within his industry.
Born June 25, 1927 and orphaned as a child, he was raised by his maternal grandparents Erven and Frances Ryle. Growing up in the Depression, he learned the value of hard work and the importance of self-reliance, innovation and motivation. His many positive qualities were further enhanced by his Catholic upbringing and education at Holy Cross Grade School and Cathedral High School.
After graduation, Bill bravely embraced his love of country and enlisted in the Marine Corps to help defend his nation during World War II. A true member of the 'Greatest Generation', he also volunteered and participated in the Korean conflict. While stationed in Philadelphia, PA after World War II, he met his bride to be Elizabeth Ann on a blind date. They were married on April 26th 1947 and the couple would have celebrated a happy and blessed 67th year of marriage.
In 1950, Bill and wife Elizabeth returned to Indianapolis as proud parents of their first son, Bill, Jr. Their second son Donald was born shortly thereafter, and the family has continued to call Indianapolis home since that time.
Following the return to Indianapolis, Bill helped to care for his ailing grandmother and began a career as a tanker truck driver for Gaseteria, a petroleum company. He later worked for Brink's armored car service where he rose in ranks to the management level at the Indianapolis branch. With heavy heart, he resigned from Brink's in late 1961 as further advancement meant moving his family to another part of the country and away from the city that his family called home.
Shortly after leaving Brink's, Bill explored business opportunities that would allow him to create his own success and that might allow his family to become part of his endeavors. Seeing a need for janitorial services, he started The Wm. F. Bane Company on February 4th, 1962. The company grew and in 1967 added a commercial and residential carpet cleaning division. Recognizing the success of this aspect of his business, he divested the janitorial service division and focused the fledgling firm entirely on carpet cleaning.
While operating the carpet cleaning service, Bill recognized that improvements to the efficiency and quality of the cleaning process could propel the industry forward. His entrepreneurial spirit and innovation led him to produce the first "Truck Mounted" carpet cleaning machine in 1970, for which he later received a patent for the unique design and application.
Dedicated to his vision, in 1974 Bill launched Bane-Clene® Systems, focused on the production and sale of Carpet Cleaning Equipment, Chemicals and Supplies. The service and supply divisions were incorporated into one entity, Bane-Clene® Corporation in 1980. The successful firm that Bill began in 1962 celebrated its 52nd anniversary this year, with Bill still active as Board Chairman.
Under his guidance and charismatic leadership, the growing business attained worldwide recognition in the Carpet Cleaning Industry and Bill was an active speaker and evangelist for the cleaning methods he developed. His leadership and business acumen helped launch thousands of independent networked affiliates worldwide, and true to his original vision his wife and sons have remained active participants in the company, still managing its day-to-day operation.
In addition to his business success, Bill was an active civic leader, serving as President of the Meadows/Fall Creek Civic League. He worked tirelessly to promote the area and later achieved an Enterprise Zone designation which opened up business opportunities for others in the area. He was also an active member of American Legion Post #3 where he served as Commander.
Outside his professional and civic endeavors, Bill loved the game of baseball. As a noteworthy young ballplayer, he had been scouted by several major league teams. As a father, he coached his sons in Little League® baseball, where he taught them the attributes of sportsmanship and teamwork. Organizationally, Bill developed and managed multiple Championship teams in American Legion Baseball, Connie Mack and Junior Baseball.
Later in life, his competitive nature turned to golf. He enjoyed his time on the links with family, friends and associates at Hillcrest Country Club. His golfing buddies at Hillcrest were affectionately known as the R.O.B.'s and they enjoyed many great times together. Bill won more than one Club Tournament and realized the dream of every golfer, a "hole in one".
Later in life, Bill and Elizabeth enjoyed wintering at their second home in St. Pete, FL. From there, they loved to visit nearby Disney World in Orlando, a special place where they enjoyed spending time with family and friends. Their love for the 'Fort Wilderness' area of the resort inspired Bill to develop and personally execute a grand vision of his own nature park at their home in Indianapolis. Now successfully transformed into a beautiful five-acre nature sanctuary, this park, complete with paths, bridges, lakes and landscaping is a beautiful reminder of the man who created it. Even in late 2013 and toward the end of his life, Bill could be found creating pathways and clearing land on his trusty tractor, his vision always expanding. Over the years, they cared for dozens of pets on the property and loved observing the wildlife attracted to the beautiful grounds.
Bill left an amazing legacy for those that follow him. Whether in private, professional, or civic endeavors, he was a successful leader with vision and motivation to follow through on his dreams. He will be greatly missed by the thousands of friends, associates and acquaintances he leaves behind, but most of all by his dedicated family who has remained with him throughout his prominent life.
He is survived by his spouse of 67 years (Elizabeth); sons, Wm. F. Bane, Jr. (significant other Denise Pettigrew), Donald Allen (Linda Faye); several grandchildren and great grandchildren. Special mention is made for loyal caregiver and family friend, retired RN Lynn Kinz who was able to manage in-home hospice care at the end of his life.
In accordance with his final wishes, a private service is planned with interment in the family mausoleum at Crown Hill Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the St. Augustine's Little Sisters of the Poor. Contact them at (2345 West 86th Street, Indpls., IN 46260, Phone 317-415-5767, http://www.littlesistersofthepoorindianapolis.org), which was the favorite charity of his and his grandmother.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Sponsored by His Loving Family.
Dad,
Ten years since your passing. That day is still very vivid in our minds. We miss you and will always love you.
Your Family
William F. Bane, Jr.
Family
February 25, 2024
Happy Birthday June 25th
Love.
Your Family
Wm. F. Bane, Jr.
Family
June 23, 2023
Happy Father's Day
Billie and Donnie
Wm. F. Bane, Jr
Family
June 16, 2023
Your 95th Birthday. Remembering you.
Your Family
Bill Bane, Jr.
Family
June 24, 2022
Remembering you on Father's Day.
Billy & Donnie
Bill Bane, Jr.
Family
June 18, 2022
Dad,
We know it's been 8 years but not a day goes by that we don't think of you.
Love,
Your Family
Bill Jr
Family
February 24, 2022
I still miss this man whom I greatly admired and so enjoyed working for. He was an inspiration. I so enjoyed our "non-business" conversations.
Don Terry
March 19, 2021
It just doesn't seem possible that it's 7 years. A great man, beloved by many and greatly MISSED. Much love to the Bane family who feel the void the most.
Chet Jelinski
Friend
February 25, 2021
Dad,
Feb 20th marked another year since your passing. Not a day goes by without us thinking of you.
Love,
Your Family
william Bane Jr
Son
February 24, 2021
Uncle Bill,
Happy Birthday.
Whenever my thoughts drift towards you or your family members, it always brings up such warm memories and respect for you. Your life was an excellent example of one that was very well lived.
Love,
Shawn Quinn
Shawn Quinn
Family
June 25, 2020
Dad,
Happy 93rd Birthday
June 25th
Love,
Your Family
Bill Bane Jr
Son
June 24, 2020
Hi Dad,
Another year has passed. It's now been 6. Mom is doing well. Obviously we all miss you.
Love your Family
02.20.2020
Bill Bane Jr
Son
February 25, 2020
Happy Birthday Dad. June 25th
Your loving Family
Bill Bane Jr
June 24, 2019
Happy Father's Day!!
Your loving family.
Bill Bane Jr
June 15, 2019
I always greatly admired Mr. Bane and considered him not only a boss but a good friend as well.
I miss him and the many times helping him with so many projects.
He was a great man who helped thousands go into business for themselves and was admired by many.
-- Don Terry, Bane-Clene's long-time chemist.
Donald Terry
May 26, 2019
Hi Dad,
It's been 5 years today. Where has the time gone?
Mom is doing well. Everyday we talk , we talk about you. Love you and miss you.
Your Family
February 20, 2019
Merry Christmas Dad,
Your loving family.
December 24, 2018
I had just arrived at Bane-Clene Systems on November 29th, 2018 to have a carpet cleaning unit installed in my van when I learned that Mr. Bane was no longer with us. I felt as though I knew him through my studies of the history of carpet cleaning and through his personal documentation of his efforts to improve on the quality of carpet cleaning and to establish standards for the carpet cleaning industry. It's obvious that he was an inspiration to all who knew him.
I didn't get the chance to meet him, but the loss of my opportunity to meet Bill Bane cannot compare to the loss of his presence as experienced by his family, friends, and the many other people who knew and loved him.
Please accept my belated condolences.
Ben Bennett
December 1, 2018
Ben Bennett
December 1, 2018
June 25th
Happy Birthday Dad!!!
Your loving family.
June 24, 2018
I did not know this man, but obviously his impact on the city I love was tremendous. He was obviously a great man. I discovered this by looking up the property on 46th St and was taken down a rabbit hole to this. I must ask, where is the nature sanctuary talked about in this obituary? I would like to visit to pay my respects to him.
Zach Hyatt
June 21, 2018
Today February 20th marks another year that you have been gone. We think of you every day.
Love,
Your Family
February 20, 2018
Dad,
Feb 4th (Sunday) was the 56th anniversary of you founding our business. Without your vision and guidance we would not be where we are today.
Love,
Your Family
February 5, 2018
Dad,
Feb 20th marks another year. You will always be with us.
Love,
Your Family
February 19, 2017
Merry Christmas Dad
Your Family
William F Bane Jr
December 24, 2016
Dad, Happy 89th Birthday
Love,
Your Family
June 25, 2016
Dad,
Another year has passed, we had dinner on the 20th. While a sad occasion, it was a chance to share family stories and memories. These helped lessen the sadness.
We Love You.
Your Family
February 21, 2016
Today we celebrate the anniversary of your 88th birthday.
Happy Birthday Dad
Your loving family.
June 25, 2015
Dad,
It is said time heals all. It has been one year. At this rate it will take a 100 years.
We miss you. Love.
Your Family
February 20, 2015
I started cleaning carpets,in 1976 at age 16.While in Catherdral High in Spfld,Ma.
The digests are still all downstairs every year decade after decade now.
I met Bill numerous times an now with my father ailing also.I went online to see what was up in Bane-Clene. I noticed the obit. I remember with sadness reading about Jimmy's passing years ago.
An now all I can say was so aptly put by Chet a page or two back.
God Bless you Bill,you changed my life in ways you never saw. God Bless all at Bane-Clene. An especially his family.
I will see you on the stairway to heaven some day. Sir,I will have Stair tool in hand .For God knows its the Bane Clene way or no way...lol
Rip, Sir you left a legacy that no one will ever match.
In the carpet cleaning industry.You gave,while many just took.An you gave it with a smile and a handshake that actually ment something . Caesar...
JMJ is what mom used to write on cards.
Jesus/Mary/Joseph, 2014...
June 5, 2014
I have always been proud of my uncle Bill. I have bragged many times about what a great man he was and about his success in business. But more importantly he made me feel loved, important and appreciated. I truly miss him and I value the times I got to spend with my uncle Bill. I really miss being able to pick up the phone, ring him up and hear his voice on the line. I cherish my memories of Bill and I am constantly reminded of him each day by a photo on my desk of Bill with my father Bob Quinn (Betty Bane's brother).
Bill: thank you for the wonderful memories and your inspiration that you imparted on me. My life was measurably enriched by you.
May God Bless his Family, Bill Jr., Donnie, Elizabeth (Little Bit), Mathew and Brett.
Shawn Quinn
March 16, 2014
I am truly honored to have been blessed with the opportunity to play a small part in life of Bill Bane. You sir are going to be sadly missed. Rest in peace my friend.
Rocky Brown
March 11, 2014
A wonderful tribute to a seemingly wonderful man.
S Cole
March 9, 2014
Chet Jelinski
March 7, 2014
We Miss You Everyday
Your Family
March 5, 2014
Bill, Gaye and I are so sorry to hear of your loss and didn't find out until 3/4. May he rest in peace!
John Sorg
March 4, 2014
My deepest sympathies to the family, truly a great man of vision!
Bill Stark
March 3, 2014
Dear Betty, Bill Jr & Don, What a joy it was to have done business with Bill & his family. He was a wonderful example for all of u with small businesses. You will all be in my prayers. Paul Bosler, Sr
Paul Bosler
March 3, 2014
I am sorry for the loss of your loved one may memories comfort you and prayer strengthen you as our heavenly Father give you courages and fortitude to endure the days ahead 2Thessalonians 2 : 16-17.
March 3, 2014
Donny, I really enjoyed your father, he was a gentleman, sportsman and some one you could look up too. Every time I saw him, I would ask about Donny, and he always said you were doing fine. You were lucky to have him. God Bless
Sam Huston
March 3, 2014
Mrs. B - My heart goes out to you and the boys..... Love always, Beth O'Laughlin
March 3, 2014
I worked for Mid-State Chemical many years as a supplier. Sorry to hear of Bill's passing.
Tara Mathey
March 3, 2014
I am sure you won't remember my name but when I came upon this obituary it brought back such rich memories. I was coached by Mr. Bane in my Little League years and remember them foundly. He was not like my other coaches and introduced the team to the first conditioning, theory and hard practices that made the game serious. I remember all star practices that year where heat records were set and we would sit in the dugouts and flood them to cool off. We practiced twice a day. This changed the way I approached not only sports but most things in life at a young age! Thanks for that!
Joe Hinshaw
March 3, 2014
Dear Mrs. Bane, Bill Jr. and Don,
I join hundreds, and even thousands, of Bane-Cleners from all over the world in saying that, quite simply, we are at a loss for words regarding the loss of your dear husband and father. It is hard to know what to say and for several days, we have said nothing except to let our tears for his loss and our prayers for you all "speak" for us. The time has come to attempt the next step, however, which is to try to put his amazing life into perspective.
To you he was a dear husband and "Dad" but Mr. Bane was, to us, a humble, generous and sincere man filled with unique wisdom and common sense developed over many years and life experiences. He could always be counted on to counsel us as to what was in our best interest, and always spoke encouraging words when we sought his input. He was not only exemplary in his gentlemanly love for his dear wife of 67 years and loyalty to his family, but his praiseworthy conduct even overflowed towards "enemies." Many times in his "Cleaning Digest" or "Clene Times" articles he would go out of his way to commend a competitor where such was warranted. This was despite a constant barrage of unfair criticism which he often received and was aware of. Mr. Bane held no grudges! He firmly believed that "The Bane-Clene Way" was the best way, but he reached out to others in the industry and commended them where possible. True leaders always take the arrows, but Mr. Bane did it without bitterness!
When someone in the Bane-Clene Family or the cleaning industry at-large passed away, he wrote touching tributes to them. He was always inspiring and edifying to be around. He knew how to listen to us every bit as perceptively as he spoke. Allow me, please, to share some of my enduring and endearing personal memories of Mr. Bane. Before I came to Bane-Clene, the very first issue of the "Cleaning Digest" I received in the mail (from early 1981) told me a lot about its publisher, William F. Bane. There was a Japanese-American man shown on the cover, cleaning draperies, you see. Mr. Bane lacked prejudice before it was fashionable to be that way, and when I later learned he was a World War II veteran I was even more impressed with him for that. At my first visit to Bane-Clene Institute in 1983, there was a female entrepreneur back in the days when this was uncommon in the male-dominated cleaning industry. Mr. Bane treated her with total respect and again, he was on the cutting edge with this attitude. I was amazed at how a man in his 50s at the time (I was in my 20s) adapted so well to the changes around him and, in fact, helped effect many of the positive ones.
He truly loved baseball (and knew the game very well), he truly loved this country and, most of all, he truly loved PEOPLE. Even after I retired last year, he and I remained good friends and e-mailed each other often about those things I just mentioned, and others. Towards the end of his life, he never complained or felt sorry for himself, he merely asked for prayers and expressed gratitude when assured that they were forthcoming.
When I think of Mr. Bane, I think of a man I respect, not just a gentleman but a "Gentle Man." He was a thinking man, an articulate man, a generous man, a Man's Man. He was a salesman extraordinaire, but always a supremely ethical one in my 32 years of dealing with him. He was a man worth emulating and respecting. He was a man who was very rare and who will be greatly missed by a world which has changed so much, often for the worst, in his lengthy and uplifting lifetime.
Mr. Bane was true friend to me and thousands of others who, with you, mourn his loss with tremendous sorrow of heart.
You and the family are in our prayers,
May the God of Peace give you peace,
Love, Chet (and Beth) Jelinski
Chet Jelinski
March 3, 2014
My condolences to the family.
Edmond Talucci
March 3, 2014
Bill was such a inspiring, kind and dedicated person who had big influence on me in the late 1970's. I will always remember him and my thoughts go out to Betty, Bill Jr., Don and grand kids Matthew and Brett. I regret not having visited with Bill over the past years. God Bless.
Tim and Kay Condron, North Redington Beach, Fl
March 2, 2014
sorry to hear about your Dad Don. Our parents were part of a great generation which taught us well.
John Felter
March 2, 2014
I interviewed Mr. Bane for a Veteran's Day project in high school and what I remember most was struggling to fit all of his wonderful accomplishments into my assignment because there were just so many. He was sharp, passionate, and willing to answer any questions I had. The hard work and dedication that I could tell Mr. Bane put into everything he did is something I really admire and wish to model my life around.
Matt P
March 2, 2014
Bill was my definition of a class act. I enjoyed working with him on the Indy Urban Enterprise Zone board and being his business neighbor. He was quick to smile and loved life. He was a humble, passionate and effective leader. Bill was a friend to a wide circle of people. I am sorry for your loss.
Don Palmer
March 2, 2014
Went to High School with Don, always admired him and his family, always friendly and kind to everyone. What an awesome life. You were Blessed.
Mike Baker
Mike Baker
March 2, 2014
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