CONCORD, NH - Joseph R. Bedard, 85, passed away Sunday, July 26, at Port Healthcare Center in Newburyport after a sudden illness.

Joseph, or "Papa Joe" as he was known to many, was born and raised in Lawrence, MA. Son of the late Odilon and Rose (Daigle) Bedard, Joe lived much of his life in the Lawrence area. After serving in the United States Marine Corp for two years, he returned home and married his wife of 65 years, Eileen (Milyaro) Bedard. Throughout his life, Joe worked in the construction industry. Upon retiring, he and his wife spent several years in Florida before returning to New Hampshire full-time.

Joe enjoyed spending time camping with his family and friends at their longtime seasonal campground in Loudon, NH, chatting with fellow campers and visitors. He also enjoyed many hobbies including traveling, cooking, and gardening. Above all else, Joe loved nothing more than spending time with his family, close friends, and his "good dog," Sam.

Along with his wife Eileen, Joe is survived by his four children Verna and her husband Gary Sirois of Haverhill, Billy and his wife Kim Bedard of Auburn, NH, Ricky and his wife Sue Bedard of Deerfield, NH and Karen and her husband Johnny Johnson of Deltona, FL. He is also survived by his eight grandchildren Jennifer, Jason, Megan, Sera, Ryan, Britney, Alexis, and Ahmed; along with four great-grandchildren, Madison, Grayson, Liam and Tessa.

Celebration of Life will be held at a later date when family and friends can gather safely. Arrangements by Driscoll Funeral Home, 309 S. Main Street, Haverhill. For guestbook, please visit www.driscollcares.com