Marjorie Ellen Bedard

Born in Peoria, Illinois, on April 8, 1937, to Lila (Murfin) and Homer Crothers, Marj was the youngest of three children. She cherished memories of growing up in the country and riding horses. After graduating from high school in Chillicothe, Illinois, she worked as a secretary before beginning what she considered her life’s work: serving the Lord.

At the age of 18, Marj was saved both spiritually and physically—an experience that shaped the rest of her life. She regarded each day that followed as a blessing and devoted herself to bringing others closer to Jesus. Through her work with Campus Crusade and by opening her home to troubled children in Kentucky, she shared her faith through both words and actions. Even during her time in the nursing home, Marj continued to minister to others and proclaim her faith.

On October 3, 1982, Marj married Frank Bedard at the Cathedral of the Bells in California. They settled in Peoria, Illinois, where they shared a peaceful life, finding contentment in each other’s company. Frank was the love of her life, and helping him come to know Jesus brought her great comfort and joy.

Marj had a warm sense of humor and a feisty streak. As the youngest child and the apple of her father’s eye, she could get away with quite a bit. She was also a famously particular eater, a trait that stayed with her throughout her life. Although she had no children of her own, she believed God had blessed her with the children He brought into her life to love and guide.

She loved her family dearly and remained close to her siblings. After Frank’s passing in 2015, Marj moved to Colorado to live with her sister, Anita, whose loving care continued until Marj’s final breath.

Marj is survived by her brother, Gary Allen Crothers, and sister, Anita Goss; stepchildren Polly Sporl (Mike), Bruce Bedard (Ana), and Timothy Bedard; grandchildren Jory, Amber, and Brittany; nephews Bruce Crothers (Tammy), Scott Crothers, Robert Crothers, David Goss (Kelley), Daniel Goss (Silke), and Daun Goss (Heather); and great-nieces and great-nephews Justin, Mitchell, Ken, Brian, Julie, Ryan, Kaelin, Devlin, Gabby, Brock, Evelyn, and Mac.

She is reunited in Heaven with her beloved husband of 33 years, Frank T. Bedard.

In accordance with her wishes, no services will be held. Cremation arrangements have been entrusted to Resthaven Funeral Home in Fort Collins, Colorado.