ALLEN GERALD BEDFORD

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ALLEN GERALD BEDFORD In the early morning hours of Thursday, December 4, 2008, Gerry Bedford died peacefully in his sleep, at home, with his beloved wife Jean at his side. He was 83 years of age. He is survived by Jean and their three sons and their families: Doug (Lori and step-grandchildren Tony and Jill), Dale (grandchildren Erin and Taylor) and James (Dawn-Lynne and grandchildren Meaghan, Janelle and Lindsey). He will be deeply missed as well by his brother Ron (Trudy), his sister Muriel (Mickey), his brother-in-law Charlie, nephew Michael, nieces Lori, Dianne, Terri and Susan and a host of extended family and cherished friends. Gerry was born in the village of Isabella, the oldest child of Ernest Hamilton Bedford and Janet Ruth (Iverach) Bedford. His early years were spent on the family's farm between Isabella and Decker. In 1938 his family moved to Melita where he spent his high school years. In 1943 Gerry entered United College (now the University of Winnipeg) on a student scholarship. His association with the University lasted for the remainder of his life. He became one of United College's outstanding graduates. He served as Senior Stick (student president) in 1945-1946. For three years, 1946-1949, he taught mathematics in the College. Following a period of graduate study at the University of Toronto, he returned in 1951 to the English Department and over the next 40 years one of the great joys of his life was to teach great works of literature to several generations of students, mostly Manitobans, but many, also, from various parts of the world. United College was a small institution in Gerry's early years as a faculty member, and, in addition to his teaching duties, he served for seven years as the College's Registrar. Gerry was the recipient of many honours, including the Clifford J. Robson Memorial Award for Excellence in Teaching, the Robin H. Farquhar Award for Excellence in Contributing to Self Governance and the Distinguished Alumni Award. He died a Fellow of United College. His deep affection for his students, colleagues and forbears at United College is reflected in the years he devoted to writing a two volume history of the University of Winnipeg, the second volume of which he completed one year ago. The first volume was awarded the Margaret McWilliams Award. Next to his commitments to family, friends and the University of Winnipeg, Gerry was well-known for his passion for sports. For 60 years he could be found every winter in curling clubs, in the early years at the old Strathcona and, thereafter, at the Granite Curling Club and, latterly, at the Heather Curling Club. His enthusiasm for baseball was legendary, as was his knowledge of the game's history. For over 50 years, Gerry was a devoted member of John Black Memorial United Church which he served as a teacher, Board member and, recently, as one of the founders of the John Black Foundation. Notwithstanding his many academic achievements, Gerry's greatest pride was ever his family. He and Jean celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary in 2004 and, together, they rejoiced in the many achievements of their sons and grandchildren. Gerry was often sought out for advice and became the trusted confidante for many family and friends. His family is grateful for all of the kind and considerate care provided by a host of professional care-givers during his illness, an illness he faced with a calm, philosophic courage, never complaining, but worrying silently over the affect his passing would surely have on all those whose lives he crossed and influenced. His family also thanks all of the relatives and friends who took such care to phone and to visit, for every phone call and every visit cheered Gerry. To those who wish, in lieu of flowers, a donation to either The John Black Foundation or to The University of Winnipeg's Alumni Scholarship campaign would be a fitting way to remember our husband and father. A service in Gerry's memory will be held on Tuesday, December 16, 2008 at 11:00 a.m. at John Black Memorial United Church, 898 Henderson Highway.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Dec 13, 2008