Bednarz, Marilyn A.

Marilyn A. Bednarz, 83, completed her earthly journey on April 4, 2024 with her family by her side. Marilyn was born in Hartford, CT, on September 19, 1940, daughter of the late Alfred G. and Ruth (Winchell) Messenger. She graduated from Newington High School, Class of 1958, a member of the National Honor Society and Secretary of her class. At 19, Marilyn married Raymond Bednarz, with whom she shared 64 wonderful years of marriage. At their home in Wethersfield, she raised her five children with Ray, providing a reassuring structure that resulted in her being like a mom to many more than her own children. She was accomplished at cooking, baking, sewing, knitting, crocheting, painting and wall papering. Holidays found Marilyn welcoming a full house, roasting the biggest prime rib or turkey that would fit in the oven, and serving her homemade gravy and pies. Marilyn had a keen eye for detail, and was instrumental in the operation of the family grocery business she and Ray created in Deep River (Ray's Chopping Block Market, 1977-1992). Marilyn found joy in the company of her family and friends, driving the red T-bird a little too fast southbound on Route 9, challenging anyone to a game of Scrabble (Carole Leonard is awaiting a rematch), cheering on the Uconn Huskies basketball teams, and venturing away when friends in Florida or the fresh lobster on the Maine coastline called to them. Marilyn was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, greatgrandmother, and friend who will be sorely missed. Left to cherish her memory are: her husband Raymond; children (and spouses): Luanne Griswold (Bill), Daniel Bednarz (Andrea), Donna Haley (Kim Smith), Marilyn Barnett (Jason), Raymond P. (Randy) Bednarz, Jr.; grandchildren: Daniel Irace (Alan Hawley), Kristi Irace White (Chris), Jennifer Haley Juall (Jason), Stephanie Haley Marinelli (Joshua), Brendan Haley, Daniel Bednarz, Jr., Spencer Barnett (Hillary), Anna Bednarz, Adam Barnettramus (Kyle), Ailie Bednarz; great grandchildren: Dylan White, Kensington Juall, Emilia Marinelli, Harper Juall; brother-in-law George Bednarz; cousin Mary Ladden. Marilyn has now escaped the body that failed her as she stoically fought the complications of Parkinson's disease. The family extends heartfelt gratitude to all who have supported Marilyn: extended family, friends, neighbors, members of the caring community at Avery Heights, caregivers Barbara Chludzinski, Miss Donna and Kammy, all of whom provided many acts of kindness and compassion. Friends may call on Friday, April 12, 2024, from 9:30-11:30 a.m. at the Farley-sullivan Funeral Home, 34 Beaver Rd., Wethersfield. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 12:00 p.m. at Church of the Incarnation, 544 Prospect St., Wethersfield. Burial will be in Village Cemetery, Marsh St., Old Wethersfield. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Habitat for Humanity (habitat.org), or the MJFF for Parkinson's Research (michaeljfox.org). To extend condolences, please visit Farleysullivan.com.