Mary Jo Bedal

Mary Jo Bedal (née Rabara), 70, of Toledo, Ohio, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family, on Sunday, April 14, 2024, at Hospice of Northwest Ohio, after courageously battling Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma. Born on April 30, 1953, to Vendell and Josephine (née Pokornik) Rabara, Mary Jo's life was marked by courage, strength, and an unwavering devotion to her family. Her radiant warmth and ever-present smile brightened every room.

A 1971 graduate of Central Catholic High School, in Toledo, on May 21, 1977, Mary Jo married the love of her life, Gerald W. Bedal. Together, they proudly built their own home and planted 300 evergreen trees on their property in 1987, a testament to their hard work and deep love for nature. Mary Jo took particular pride in this labor of love, which she viewed as a lasting legacy for her family.

Family was Mary Jo's top priority and greatest passion. She found immense joy in exploring nature with her children and grandchildren and embarking on family vacations. Her unwavering dedication to putting her kids' needs first defined her selfless, nurturing spirit as a mother and grandmother. Extremely easy-going and laid-back, Mary Jo was always willing to help her family.

Mary Jo worked at Toledo Hospital from 1977, until her retirement in 2013. She heroically saved a choking man's life at a restaurant, a testament to her bravery and caring nature that left a lasting impact. Her quick actions and calm demeanor in a critical moment highlighted her innate ability to make a significant difference in the lives of others, even beyond her immediate family.

She is survived by her beloved husband of 46 years, Gerald, and their sons, Brian (wife Kimberly, children Brianna and Haley), Kyle (wife Alana, children Clara and Aubree), and Kevin. Her life was a beacon of kindness and generosity, deeply touching her family.

Mary Jo was preceded in death by her parents, Vendell and Josephine (née Pokornik) Rabara, her brothers Bill Rabara and Thomas Rabara, and her nephew Jay Rabara.

A memorial celebrating Mary Jo’s remarkable life will be held on a date to be determined by the family.

In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society at https://www.lls.org/.

While Mary Jo may be gone, the love, laughter, wisdom, and authentic "what you see is what you get" spirit she gave so freely will forever remain in the hearts of those blessed to know her.