Michael Bedford

Michael J. Bedford VIRGINIA BEACH - Michael J. Bedford, 63, passed away quietly Aug. 30, 2009. He was born April 24, 1946, in Syracuse, N.Y., to the late Charles E. and Charlotte H. Bedford. Michael served his country in the United States Navy. It was in 1980 that Michael and his family moved from their Groton, Conn., home to his new duty station in Norfolk and retired as a CW04 in 1991. Michael was a member of VFW Post 4809 in Norfolk and the Wednesday night Cribbage group. He enjoyed fishing, was a master woodworker and a die-hard Tony Stewart NASCAR fan. Michael was a devoted husband, father, grandfather; and friend to many. Left to cherish his memory are his beloved wife, Elaine "Suzi" Bedford; daughters, Dawn Marie Mathis and husband Kevin of Las Vegas, Nev., Sandra Bedford Harrah and husband Matthew of Suffolk, and Janice Michelle Hughes and husband Brad of Tucson, Ariz.; grandchildren, Summer and Ty Mathis, Richard and Andrew Harrah and Michael and Mollie Hughes; aunt, Jane Castello Barlow of Catonsville, Md.; nephew and partner-in-crime, Charles Bedford of Norfolk; numerous nieces, nephews, children and grandchildren of the heart and a harem of quilters. A celebration of life was held Sunday, Aug. 30, 2009, at his nephew, Chuck Bedford's home on Willoughby Spit. Burial at sea will be at a later date. As a way of celebrating Michael's life, the family has requested memorial donations be made to the American Heart Association, 360 Southport Circle, Suite 104, Virginia Beach, VA 23452 in lieu of flowers. You may offer your love and condolences to the family at www.mem.com.