Margaret M. Beford

Beford, Margaret M.
Appleton

Age 98, passed away peacefully in her sleep on Sunday morning, November 30, 2008 at Emerald Valley Assisted Living Center. She was born on December 12, 1909, daughter of the late Joseph and Lulubelle (Perrigo) Heckel. Before her graduation from high school Margaret starting working as a switchboard operator for Wisconsin Bell, with whom she was employed for 44 years and eventually retired in the 1970's as the Assistant Chief of Wisconsin Bell. On June 25, 1930 she married Ralph F. Beford at St. Mary Catholic Church, and they shared 64 wonderful years until he preceded her in death in 1994. She was a lifetime member of St. Mary Catholic Church in Appleton, and a member of the Telephone Pioneers. She enjoyed crocheting, as well as other crafts, and making decorations for the holidays.

She will be sadly missed by her daughter: Joyce (Dick) Wells, Appleton; grandsons: Mike (Sybil) Wells, Marengo, IL, Patrick (Robin) Wells, Kaukauna, Steve Wells, Little Chute; 8 great-grandchildren; 5 great great-grandchildren; a sister: Lucille Schrimpf, Appleton; nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents, and her loving husband, Ralph, she was preceded in death by three brothers.

Funeral Mass for Margaret will be held at 10:30 A.M. on Thursday, December 4, 2008 at St. Mary Catholic (312 South State Street) with Father Michael K. O'Rourke officiating. Friends may call at the church from 9:30 A.M. until the time of Mass. Entombment will be in Highland Memorial Park.

The family would like to thank the wonderful staff at Emerald Valley, for their exceptional care.