Joseph Bean

Coach Joseph Waller Bean
April 26, 1939 - February 13, 2025
Joseph Waller Bean, a legendary collegiate soccer coach and devoted family man, passed away at the age of 85. Born on April 26, 1939, in Sayre, Pennsylvania, Joe was the son of Rev. Zenas Bailey Bean and Lou Ella Walle Bean. He grew up in a strong Christian home where he developed values of faith, integrity, and perseverance that guided him throughout his life.
Joe Bean was a multi-sport athlete at Butler Township High School in Fountain Springs, Pennsylvania, excelling in football, basketball, and baseball. While attending East Stroudsburg State University, he played football before transitioning to soccer under the influence of legendary coach John Eiler. This decision marked the beginning of his illustrious soccer career. Bean later earned a Master's Degree in Physical Education and Counseling from Ohio University, further preparing him for his future in coaching.
Joe Bean's coaching career spanned an incredible 45 seasons, during which he became one of the most respected figures in collegiate soccer. His career coaching record of 607-185-61 made him the winningest soccer coach in NCAA history at the time of his retirement.
Quinnipiac University (1962-1964): 20-9-0
Bridgeport University (1965-1968): 31-15-2
Wheaton College (1969-2006): 556-161-58
At Wheaton College, he transformed the soccer program into a national powerhouse, leading the team to 23 conference championships and five NCAA Division III Final Four appearances. His teams won two National Championships (1984, 1997) and finished as national runners-up in 1999 and 2006. His leadership resulted in a record-setting 66-game unbeaten streak from 1996 to 1998, an achievement that remains a testament to his coaching prowess.
Joe was a two-time NSCAA and NCAA Division III Coach of the Year and became the first collegiate soccer coach to reach 600 career victories. In recognition of his impact, Wheaton College named its soccer stadium "Joe Bean Stadium" in 2006. His contributions to the sport were further honored with inductions into multiple halls of fame, including the NSCAA Hall of Fame (2007) and the U.S. Soccer Hall of Fame (2007).
Beyond the field, coach Bean played an integral role in shaping the soccer community. He served as President of the NSCAA (1978), chaired the NSCAA Ethics Committee, and was the inaugural recipient of the NSCAA/NISOA "Merit Award" for sportsmanship and integrity. He founded the Premier Soccer Camp (1979-1992), influencing countless young athletes. His dedication to fair play and ethical conduct left a lasting legacy in the sport.
Joe married his high school sweetheart, Shirley Ann Schmolze, on June 4, 1960. Together, they raised four children-Pamela, Laurie, J.T., and T.J.-instilling in them the same values of faith and hard work that defined his life. Both of his sons played soccer for him at Wheaton College, continuing the family's deep connection to the sport. Joe and Shirley were blessed with 15 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren, a testament to their loving and supportive family.
A devoted Christian, Joe was actively involved at Wheaton Bible Church, serving multiple terms on the elder board and leading the Homebuilders adult community. His faith guided his coaching philosophy, emphasizing integrity, sportsmanship, and perseverance. The team motto, "KOPION" (from 1 Corinthians 15:58), exemplified his belief in hard work and dedication to Christ.
Joe also took his passion for soccer and faith to the mission field, leading teams on international trips to share the gospel through sports. His impact extended far beyond wins and losses-he shaped the lives of his players, colleagues, and everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.
Joe Bean's influence on American soccer and Christian athletics is immeasurable. His dedication, leadership, and faith left an indelible mark on the sport, his family, and the broader community. Though he has passed on, his legacy lives through the countless lives he touched, the championships he won, and the values he instilled in those he mentored.
He is survived by his wife Shirley, children Pam (Steve) Thonn, Laurie (Dave) Narup, JT Bean (Lo), JG Bean (Brooke) 15 grandchildren, Jaimee, Corey (Julia) Thonn, Brittnee, Nick (Ashley) and Bryn Barstatis, Christopher and Leah Narup, Raphie, Brendan and Eli Bean, Trevor, Casey and Dawson Bean, El and Jozzie Johnson, and five great grandchildren, David and Cece Barstatis, Micah Narup, Maeve and Nelson Johnn. He is also survived by his brother Zenas (Kathy) Bean and many cherished nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents Zenas and Louella and an infant brother, Zenas.
A celebration of his life and faith will be held at Wheaton Bible Church, 27W500 North Ave., West Chicago, IL on Friday, February 21 at 5:00 p.m. Here is the link to view Joe Bean's Service: Joe Bean's Memorial Service
A reception will follow the service. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to: Joe Bean Sports Ministry Endowment
Use this link, click "other"
And fill in: Joe Bean Sports Ministry Endowment
If sending check by mail:
Advancement - Joe Bean Sports Ministry Endowment
501 College Ave
Wheaton, IL 60187
Joe Bean's life was one of purpose, passion, and faith-a true testament to the power of sports and service. He will be deeply missed but never forgotten.