Sean Allen VanBeek passed away on December 10, 2025, in Wichita, Kansas at St. Francis hospital, surrounded by family and loved ones. He was born on October 8, 1970, in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, and lived a life marked by curiosity, intelligence, friendship, and a deep enthusiasm for the things he loved most.

From a young age, Sean was fascinated by aircraft. The science of flight captured his imagination so completely that it kept him awake at night, dreaming of the day he would fly. In time, that dream became reality. He briefly held a pilot’s license and had the opportunity to fly small aircraft, an accomplishment that reflected both his determination and his lifelong sense of wonder. His love of aviation also shaped his working life, and he was employed at a number of aircraft plants in Wichita.

Sean knew his way around a swimming pool just as naturally as he understood airplanes. For many years, he worked for Dave at Dave’s Pool Store, later going on to own a pool business, The Pool Crew, which later became S & S Pools, with the Souba family. He also spent many years in Wichita’s bar and club scene, where he became a familiar face to many. Anyone who spent time downtown had a good chance of finding Sean behind the bar at America’s Pub or a similar gathering place, welcoming people with his presence and personality.

Education remained an important part of Sean’s life. He graduated from Smoky Valley High School in Lindsborg, Kansas, continued his studies at Hutchinson Community College in Hutchinson, and later earned his MBA from Wichita State University. Those who knew him understood that his intelligence ran deep. He was especially proud of passing the Mensa test on his third attempt, placing him in the top two percent of IQ scores.

Sean also embraced adventure and the joy of living fully. He spent some time in Costa Rica, where he enjoyed the pura vida life while working for his friend, Spike. That chapter brought him great happiness, and it inspired a dream for the future: retiring in Hawaii and owning a small plane to charter tourists who wanted to island hop. It was a dream that fit him perfectly, combining his love of flying, travel, and freedom.

Football was another lasting passion throughout Sean’s life. In his high school and college years, he played the game he loved, and in later years he remained a devoted fan. Some of his happiest memories were made going up to Kansas City, tailgating with friends and watching the Chiefs play. Those times reflected the warmth and camaraderie that meant so much to him.

Among Sean’s greatest joys were the relationships that made his life rich and meaningful. He was incredibly proud of his step-daughter, Lila Herrman, and considered himself fortunate to have been part of her childhood. The two were once inseparable and the best of buddies. He treasured mornings making her French toast and the hours they spent together playing in her rumpus room. Together they welcomed a Pitbull puppy, Ruby, who was one of Sean’s great loves and remained a cherished part of his world.

Sean was also a devoted godfather to Dominik Souba. “Papa Sean,” he was a steady and loving presence in Dom’s childhood, spoiling him when he was little, and letting him get away with just a little more than he should have as a teenager. That affectionate role suited Sean well, and it spoke to the generous and playful spirit he shared so freely with the people he loved.

He is survived by his mother, Marlene Mehigan; his brother Rodney VanBeek (Jaqueline); and his brother Marc Lerew (Tammy). He will be remembered with love by his family, by those who shared in his work and adventures, and by the many friends whose lives were brighter because Sean was part of them.

Sean will be remembered for his sharp mind, his big dreams, his loyalty, and the unmistakable way he brought energy to every chapter of his life. Whether he was talking about airplanes, enjoying football, tending to his work, or spending time with those closest to him, he lived with heart. His memory will remain a lasting gift to all who knew and loved him.