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 It is with the heaviest of hearts we share with you some very sad news. Jack Beagan, our dear friend and co-worker many of you knew well from visits to our store and beyond, passed away suddenly on Sunday. Jack was here in May 2010 when we unpacked the first boxes, stocked the shelves and opened our doors. He has been a cornerstone of our little venture ever since and we will miss him in so many ways.
Jack’s passion for books was clear from day one. He contributed his thoughts and ideas to our ever-growing inventory, building our philosophy and religion/spirituality sections with well curated and intellectual titles. It was exciting to talk to Jack after he had finished reading something that he loved. He would pause and think about his word choices when describing a good book. It was as if he was attempting to find descriptive words that would do that book justice. He loved to talk about books, and hear about what others were reading. His taste in literature was as diverse as his love of music, theatre, and the many activities and organizations he was a part of in our community.
Beyond all of this, remarkably over 10 years of working closely together, we never exchanged a cross word or had the slightest difficulty. Quite the opposite, Jack had an easy ability with our customers and our staff. Jack was the man who hung the holiday garlands on the front of the store even when we said we’d find someone else to do it. Jack is the man who would stop during a snowstorm to help shovel the sidewalk before opening if we hadn’t arrived yet to do it ourselves. Jack was the man who would volunteer to work extra shifts when others weren't able. Jack was the man who led our annual physical inventory with drive, determination, and impeccable organization.
We would be remiss to talk about Jack without saying the words, “Jack will find it.” If we were ever struggling to find a book in our inventory, we knew Jack would take the time to scour the store, and he would find it, almost every time! Jack had a spark in his eyes, a booming laugh, and a crooked grin that will forever be missed here.
Anyone in Bayfield this Saturday, November 16th is welcome to stop by the Celebration of Life for him from 1:00-4:00 PM at Wild Rice Retreat. We will all be there.
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