Michael (Bear) Pat Bedford

Michael (Bear) Pat Bedford, 77, passed peacefully with family at his side on January 8th, 2025, in Mesa AZ.

Mike was born 10-8-1947 in Ottumwa, IA. The eldest child of Vernon and Marilyn (Hawker) Bedford. Mike proudly served in the United States Army during Vietnam as an Inter Speed Radio Operator - MAC V Team 1968-1969.

Upon his return, Mike was briefly married and had 2 children, he also started his career with the USPS, where he met his future wife Patricia (Tricia) Lee Ballard and were married in 1983.

After retiring from USPS, Mike and Tricia moved to Mesa, AZ, where they enjoyed the weather, scenery, spoiling neighborhood doggies with cookies and socializing with friends. When family visited, Mike was the Cruise Director and Tour Guide to Arizona.

Mike made yearly drives back to IA to visit family, friends, and his grand dogs. Mike enjoyed friendly political debates, reading, trying new cuisine and a good joke. He had a passion for helping others, whether it be large or small - He said it was his JOB.

Mike’s best job was DAD and GRANDPA two titles he was fiercely proud of.

Mike was preceded in death by his parents, his beloved wife Tricia, and his brother Steve. Left to honor Mike are his children, stepson James (Lisa) Trent of Sun Prairie, WI, daughter Stephanie Bedford (Kris Kammerer) of Des Moines, IA, and son Riley (Jaeme) Bedford of Webster City. Also, brothers Vernon (Marjorie) Bedford of Cantril, IA, Tim (Abbie) Bedford of Webster City, Tom (Sheri) of Eldon, IA, and sisters Dani (Eric) Landmeier of Ottumwa, IA, and Sue Collier of Ottumwa, IA. As well as 14 grandchildren, 9 great grandchildren, extended family and cherished friends.

Mike’s children would like to especially thank his friends Joyce, Beth, Jerry, Amanda, John and Danny. We are deeply touched by your kindness and care you have given us and our dad.

A memorial service will be held May 17th, at Merle Hay Chapel, 4400 Merle Hay Road, Des Moines, IA from 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.