Geraldine Bedard

Geraldine “Geri” Bedard, a beloved matriarch and cherished friend, passed away on October 26, 2025, at the age of 91. Born on July 6, 1934, in Detroit, Geri lived a life full of love, laughter, and countless cherished memories that will be forever treasured by her family and friends.

Geri was the heart of her expanding family, known for her unwavering devotion and nurturing spirit. Her daughters, Teri (Dave) Kennedy, Barb (Carl) Schweizer, Pam (Rob) Moody, Deb Ruwart, and Elizabeth (Rob) Longton, know her as an extraordinary mother whose love was boundless. She delighted in creating precious moments with her 10 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren, each of whom holds dear the warmth, joy, and unconditional love she bestowed upon them.

Family vacations were a cornerstone of Geri's legacy. She meticulously documented every trip in her journals, noting every dollar spent, time, and temperature at each state line crossing—evidence of her detail-oriented nature and her love for adventure. Her grandchildren will recall fond summers spent at fishing derbies in Canada and spirited late-night card games that brought the family together. The littlest members of the family will remember her through the joy of Beanie Babies and the soothing refrain of “hopey, hopey, hopey” as she rocked them to sleep, enveloping them in her overwhelming love.

Geri’s personality shone brightly in everything she did. As a devoted mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister, wife, and friend, she exemplified grace and strength. Maintaining her independence throughout her life, she readily drove herself to sought-after bingo halls and took frequent casino trips, always eager for fun. Her winters in Florida were especially treasured, where she immersed herself in the sun and fellowship. She had a zest for life that included crossword puzzles, watching “Andy of Mayberry,” and rooting for her favorite sports teams—the University of Michigan Football, Tigers, Lions, Wimbledon, and golf.

Preceded in death by her loving husband of 55 years, Ray and sisters Mary Ann and Patricia, Geri leaves behind a legacy woven with love and care. She will be profoundly missed by her family and the many whose lives she touched through her kindness and vivacity.

A visitation will take place on October 29, 2025, from 2:00 PM to 8:00 PM at The Allen Park Chapel - Martenson Family Of Funeral Homes, located at 10915 Allen Rd, Allen Park, MI 48101. A Mass will follow at Our Lady of the Woods Catholic Church in Woodhaven on October 30, 2025, starting at 11:00 AM, preceded by a visitation at 10:30 AM.

As we gather to celebrate Geri’s remarkable life, we will hold her memories close to our hearts, finding comfort in the beautiful imprint she left on all of us.