John L. Bedell

John L. Bedell Sr. of Factoryville, PA passed away Thursday, February 23, 2012 at Geisinger Wyoming Valley from complications as a result of his battle with cancer. He was 68 years old. He was born September 29, 1943, in Sussex, NJ, son of the late Earl Johnson and the late Madeline Bedell Johnson. He is survived by many loved ones and would have celebrated 50 years of marriage this March 24th with the love of his life, Bertha Belcher Bedell. He is the beloved eldest brother of Joann, Earl, Betty, Fred, Thelma, Cindy, Brenda, Earldene, Dorothy, Thelma, Stella, Emma, Linda, Carol and numerous nieces and nephews. He was a retired truck driver of 45 years known by many as ‘Whitestreak’ out on the open road and taking pride in the appearance of his truck. Amongst his family he was known as a famous highway tool collector. He often embraced helping others throughout his life, often giving the shirt off of his back to help another in need. He was a Philadelphia Phillies fanatic. He enjoyed and was a staple in local dart and horseshoes that was known for being a formidable foe. His long time passion was music. He was a talented guitar player and was lead in many country bands throughout his life including The Legend and with the most successful and widely popular being John Bedell and the Wichita Linemen which included his brother-in-law William “Poncho” Pellew, husband of his sister Joann. Throughout the rest of his life he would often break out in jam sessions with family and friends at gatherings which often resembled John Bedell and Friends greatest hits. He was a family-oriented man and embraced his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren with an unparalleled unconditional love. He is survived in love by son John Jr. and wife Nancy of Meshoppen, PA; son Charles ”Billy” and wife Lana of Factoryville, PA; son Randy and wife Tammy of Factoryville, PA; daughter Wanda, his princess, and husband Bill of Lake Winola, son Lucky and fiancé Rose of Hop Bottom; and by 21 grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren. “Poppy was a great man, a hero, an inspiration; I am without words on how much he means to me, to us. Until we meet again, he was and will always be a permanent fixture in our hearts.” said John L. Bedell III. Funeral Services will held on Monday, February 27th at 2 pm from the Sheldon-Kukuchka Funeral Home, Inc., 73 W. Tioga St Tunkhannock with the Rev. Gary Myers officiating. Friends and family may call at the funeral home from 12 pm until the time of the service. Interment will be in Sunnyside Cemetery. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.sheldonkukuchkafuneralhome.com