Charles H. Bedford, 92, of Excelsior Springs, MO, passed away peacefully on June 23, 2021.
Charles was born on April 5, 1929 to Vernetta (Sproull) and James Bedford in Rockville, MO. He was the youngest of nine children and four half siblings.
He was stationed in Alaska while serving in the Army during the Korean War.
He married Verna Bergsieker on October 18, 1946. They had 53 wonderful years together until her passing in 2000. He later married Mary Harris in 2005 and they enjoyed many bus trips together until she passed in 2011.
Charles was baptized at the age of 13 in Appleton City, MO. He attended the Methodist Church in Excelsior Springs and later Winnwood Church in Kansas City with Mary.
Charles grew up on farms in and around Appleton City, MO. His dad passed on his 13th birthday, so he and his brother Ev were the providers. He worked hard in the beginning at a young age and had various occupations working at the shoe factory, dairy, and later becoming a tool and die machinist, working at Whitacre Cable, which he did until retirement.
He loved people and was always willing to lend a helping hand. He never met a stranger and could always visit with anyone he met, always having a story to tell. He loved music and enjoyed square dancing, bowling, card playing, hunting, fishing, camping, and traveling. At family reunions, you could find him enjoying yard games with the kids. You could always see him at a ball game for his kids and grandkids.
Charles was also preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Leland (at birth), Roy, Thompson, Lloyd, Everett, George, and Archie; sisters, Mata Langdon, Minnie Smith, and Lelah Randall; as well as a host of in-laws he loved dearly.
He is survived by his son, David (Denise) Bedford; daughter, Debi (Phillip) Still of Excelsior Springs; grandchildren, Damon Still, April (Jake) Ross, Brandee Soria (Jimmy Teat), Brennan (Shannon) Bedford, and Brett Bedford; five great grandchildren, two great-great grandchildren; his special friend, Ellie; and a host of family and friends.
A visitation will be held from 10 to 11:30 a.m., Monday, June 28, 2021 at the Lawson Assembly of God Church with service following. Burial with full military honors at Hillcrest Cemetery, Excelsior Springs, MO, following the service.
Arrangements are in care of Bross & Spidle Funeral Home, Excelsior Springs.
Our Sincere Condolences
Doug and I are so sorry for your loss. Thinking of you and your family.
Doug and Leigh Ann
So sorry to hear of his passing. He was always such a sweet man. Keeping your family in our thoughts and prayers.
Leslea McKillip
Mr. Bedford was a special friend in Jim’s life.So very sorry to hear that he’s gone.Sending our thoughts and prayers…
Pamela Thompson
Sorry for your loss.
Brice and Deborah Nance
Our deepest condolences to the family. We’re saddened to hear of Mr.Bedford’s passing. He was such a sweet, sweet man.
Prayers for peace & comfort.
Bill & Joyce
David and Denise so sorry for your loss.
Patsy & Fred
Sorry for loss. May God comfort your family in their loss.
Linda Gail Smith
So sorry for your loss. Charlie was a great guy. Had a lot of good times at football and basketball games with him.
Ben and Debbie Hankins
I am so sorry. Charlie was a wonderful man. Love and hugs for all of you.
Susan McAuliffe
We were saddened to hear of Mr. Bedford’s passing. He was a great fan of the ESHS Tigers. He was a delight to dance with too.
Becky and Tom Admire
Debi and David, I am sorry to hear of your father’s passing and my deepest sympathies go to you, all of your family, and his friends as well.
Jamie Lansford
So sorry for your loss, prayers for you and your family.
Shawna and Matt Mcgaugh
Thinking of the Bedford family as you say your goodbyes to you Dad and grandpa. Thru you all he lives – the smile and twinkle in his eye as you reminisce of all the times spent together. He loved his family deeply.
Bill and Deb Foster
What a nice guy. Every time we saw Charlie, he had a smile on his face and a spring in his step. So sorry for your loss.
Carolyn King
We are very sorry for your loss. Our condolences to the family. We visited with Charles one afternoon in his room at the Kearney nursing home when we were looking for a place for my Dad. He was very gracious and friendly. I will never forget it.
Brace and Diana
We are so sorry for your loss. He was always so friendly and just a great guy. Our deepest sympathy and prayers to all the families.
Larry and Clara Brunke
So sorry for your loss and sending our sincerest condolences and prayers for the family.
Stacy Wisdom and Family, Brace and Diana Bailey
Moose and family, sorry for your loss. Your dad was a great guy, the kind of parent that a teacher and coach loves to work with. Coach and Delores Bush
My husband, Don & I danced with Charles and Mary with the Shooting Stars Square Dance club for a short while. He was a very nice, friendly gentleman. I know he will be sorely missed by his family and many friends. My sincere sympathy to the family.
God Bless, Marvalee
