Vonard R. Bedker

Vonard R. Bedker, age 88, longtime valley resident went to be in the arms of his Heavenly Father on Thursday, March 8, 2018. Vonard was born on October 2, 1929 in Spokane, WA, the son of Roy E. and Katherine (Holznagle) Bedker.  At the age of sixteen started to fly and flew for over fifty-four years.  He received his education in Mabton and at the age of seventeen enlisted in the United State Air Force.  While serving his country, part of Vonard’s job was Crew Chief of a B52-G and an electronic trouble shooter for the Atlas Missile Program. After twenty years of service Vonard was honorably discharged as a Master Sergeant.

Following his military service Vonard settled and worked on the family grape farm in Mabton, WA and over the years enlarged it to a 120 acre vineyard with a Welch contract.  On July l, 1990 he married Mary Ann Wright in Reno, Nevada.  Vonard and Mary Ann loved traveling throughout the United States and abroad.  He was a gun and stamp collector, avid fisherman and hunter. Vonard also enjoyed camping. Vonard had two airplanes at the East Prosser Airport where he taught flying lessons.

Vonard is survived by his wife, Mary Ann Bedker of Zillah, WA.  One son Michael Bedker of Mabton, WA. and one daughter Patti Jo Donahue of West Richland, WA.  Two grandchildren Brandi Allen and Adrianne Deen and two great grandchildren Eva Johnson and Vincent Deen.  One sister Lavonne Hoivik of Tacoma, WA.  

Viewing and visitation will be held on Sunday, March 11, 2018 from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Smith Funeral Home, Sunnyside, WA.  Funeral Service will be held on Monday, March 12, 2018 at 11:00 a.m. at the Smith Funeral Home, Sunnyside, WA.  Burial will follow at the Lower Valley Memorial Gardens, Sunnyside, WA. If you would like to honor Vonard’s memory you may contribute to the Cancer Fund or Diabetic Association.  Those wishing to sign Vonard’s online memorial book may do so at www.funeralhomemsith.com

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