Paul Emile Bedard

Paul Bedard Merritt Island Paul E. Bedard, 86, of Merritt Island died peacefully at home on Sunday, May 16, 2010 after many years of declining health. His final journey was hastened by esophageal cancer, diagnosed in January 2010. Born in Lawrence, Massachusetts on January 2, 1924, Paul was preceded in death by his parents, Theodore and Jeanne (Lemay) Bedard. He entered the seminary at an early age and joined the Order of Marist Brothers, a Catholic religious Order dedicated to education. After a number of years, Paul came to the realization that this decision had been made too early in life and requested to be released from this commitment. A graduate of Fordham University, New York City, N.Y. and St. John's University, Brooklyn, N.Y. he completed additional coursework at the Catholic University of America, Washington, D.C., Northeastern University, Boston, Ma., and Stetson University, Deland, Fl. Fifty years ago, Paul moved his growing family to Brevard County to begin a career in the space industry. He eventually moved into the field of Health and Human Services with the Brevard County Government from which he retired in 1983. Paul is survived by his wife of 55 years, Claire (Caron) Bedard also of Lawrence Mass., Sons Mark Bedard and Christopher Bedard, daughters Paula (Bedard) Canham (husband Richard), Suzanne (Bedard) Comunale; six grandchildren, Ryan and Bradley Pokorny, Nicholas and Anthony Bedard, and Megan and Marissa Comunale. He will be deeply missed by the family that loved, honored and cherished him. A mass of Christian burial and celebration of Paul's life will be held at Divine Mercy Catholic Church, Merritt Island, on Tuesday, May 25, 2010 at 11AM. Visitation with friends and family beginning at 10AM. In lieu of flowers, please consider donations in Paul's memory to Vitas Hospice 4450 W. Eau Gallie Blvd., Suite 2510, Melbourne, FL 32934, Divine Mercy Catholic School Scholarship fund 1940 N. Courtenay Parkway, Merritt Island, FL 32953 or Cape Canaveral Hospital Auxiliary ""Lights of Love"" program, 701 W. Cocoa Beach Causeway, Cocoa Beach, FL 32931. The family wishes to thank Father Michael Farrell, Pastor of Divine Mercy for his kindness and support in the hours of our greatest need. Beckman-Williamson Funeral home is serving the family. You may sign the guest book at www.beckman-williamson.com