Donald M. Bedale Jr.

1959 - 2021

Donald M. Bedale Jr.

Las Cruces - Donald M. Bedale Jr., a lifelong resident of Las Cruces, finally found peace, Wednesday, March 3, 2021 at the age of 61. He was born to Donald and Mary Bedale on May 17, 1959. He was a graduate of San Andres (Freedom) High School Class of '78.

It was important to him that people know the following, that he did not give up his fight with cancer, instead he defeated it by dying. He died the way he lived, by his own rules. If you said hecouldn't do it; he would make sure he could.

He was a wallpaper installer and painter, in a family business dating back to the 70s started by his mother, Mary. Later his wife joined the team and together they worked closely with decorators, designers, builders, various businesses, and homeowners. His projects ranged from homes, to businesses, multi floor hotels and government buildings throughout New Mexico and El Paso.

Don was a true Renaissance man, who believed that if you did it right the first time, you wouldn't have to do it again. His hobbies included water skiing, fishing, wood cutting, sitting by a crackling fire, and fixing anything that needed to be fixed. He passed on the love of old countrymusic and 70's rock to his children. Among other passions some of his favorites included concerts and dancing.

He is survived by his partner in life of 37 years, his wife, Mona Chavira-Bedale. He had 2 wonderful children, who were the apple of his eye, Heather (Mud Rat) and David (Booger Bear) plus, the "addition" of a 2nd daughter, that he loved like one of his own, Lori. He is also survived by a sister, Jean Fairres of Deming, NM. There's also the "outlaws" Mona's brother, sisters, their spouses including many nieces and nephews. Plus, some very special friends and colleagues. Missing and looking for him are the family rescue dogs, Bubba, Woody, Piper, and his beloved "Fair Princess" Lola.

At this time no services will be held due to COVID-19. He did request a celebration of his life to be held at a future date when it is safe. Had there been a service, he would want his eulogy to contain the following quote, "We are all travelers in this world. From the sweet grass to the packing house, birth till death, we travel between the eternities." --Broken Trail, Prentice Ritter. Don was a man who believed that there was little peace and rest in the world, and although he was not a religious man, he hoped and believed that after death, this wish would be fulfilled.

He was predeceased by his parents, Don and Mary, his sister Joy, and numerous other family members. The family would like to take this opportunity to express their sincerest appreciation to Dr. Ann Mercer, for her compassionate care. They are also forever indebted to Kindred Hospice Care for being part of Don's team on his final journey, Thank you Monica, Gladys, and Lisa. Not to be forgotten are the friends and family who took part in his crazy journey through life.

Arrangements are with La Paz-Graham's Funeral Home 555 West Amador Las Cruces, NM 88005. To sign the online guest book visit www.LaPaz-Grahams.com

In lieu of flowers, his wishes were for donations to be made to an animal rescue of your choosing.