With great sadness and a heavy heart, we announce the passing of Arthur A. Bejarano, 90, of Gilbert, Arizona on Jan. 9, 2023. Arthur was the son of Roque and Clemencia Bejarano, born in Miami, Arizona, on May 12, 1932. After graduating from Miami High School, Arthur attended Arizona State University, receiving his master’s degree in Education. He was an educator for 25 years, and was the administrator for Claypool Medical Center and Gila Health Plan, Inc. Arthur found the love of his life, Margaret, and they were married for 69 years. Arthur and his beloved Margaret raised their eight children in Wheatfields, Arizona.
Arthur, of humble beginnings, had many professions throughout his life, including musician, home builder, builder of his brother Dr. Charles A. Bejarano’s medical practice, lab technician, teacher, administrator and woodworker. Arthur was passionate about photography, camping, fishing, golf, woodworking and art in his early life. Later in his life, Arthur loved movies, watching sports and traveling vicariously through his children. He had an unquenchable thirst for life and knowledge and was the lover of good debate, researching topics of interest on his many devices, which kept his mind sharp throughout his life. Above all, he loved visiting with family and friends. He remained steadfast in his Catholic faith and loyalty to the ASU Sun Devils. He nourished people with love and had a passion for learning and a passion for teaching.
He will live on in the massive legacy of children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren he leaves behind, woven tightly together in love and friendship.
Arthur was preceded in death by his parents; brothers Dr. Charles A. Bejarano and Gilbert Bejarano; sister Velia Rios; and grandson Robert David Bejarano. He is survived by his wife, Margaret Bejarano, and their eight children, Cathy Contreras (Andy), Art Jr. (Shereena), Sandy (Erik), Christopher (Lynda), Patti Saenz (Anthony), David (Monica), Paul (Monica), Vincent (Candace), 18 grandchildren, 26 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild.
Visitation and Rosary were held Monday, Jan. 23, 2023, at 9 a.m. at Queen of Heaven Catholic Funeral Home. Funeral Mass was held at 11 a.m. at St. Mary Magdalene Catholic Church. Interment followed at Queen of Heaven Cemetery.
