Marcia M Bielby

Marcia M. Bielby, 75, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister and educator passed away on July 6, 2009 after a valiant battle with cancer. Marcia was born in Salmon, Idaho on March 18, 1934, to Johnnie and Mae Gutzman. She attended schools in Salmon, graduating as salutatorian from Salmon High School in 1952. She attended Idaho State College for two years and then married her childhood sweetheart, Victor C. Bielby on October 25, 1954, in Fayetteville, N.C. where Vic was stationed in the army.

Upon returning from the service Vic accepted a position with the Federal Bureau of Public Roads which gave them the opportunity to live and work in many localities in the state of Idaho including Boise, Salmon, St. Maries, Stanley, Crouch and Island Park; each job adding lifelong friendships. During these years, they were blessed with two children, John in 1956 and Vicki in 1959.

When the family moved back to Pocatello in 1966, Marcia continued her education at Idaho State University where she earned her Bachelor of Arts, Masters and Education Specialist degrees. Marcia taught at Hawthorne and Bonneville Elementary Schools and served as principal of Tendoy and Chubbuck Elementary schools. She earned the respect and admiration of her peers. She received the prestigious “Gem Award” by the Idaho Association of Elementary School Principals along with recognition from many for her contribution to excellence in education. She loved her school, her teachers, and her students.

Marcia is survived by her husband, Victor C. Bielby, her son John Bielby (Laurie) of Florence, Montana; her daughter, Vicki Avila (Claudio) of Pocatello, Idaho; three grandchildren, Amanda (Mark) Sommers, Andy Avila, Matt Avila; one great-granddaughter, Olivia; her sister, Shirley Booher (Jerrold) of Pocatello.

She was preceded in death by; her parents, Johnnie and Mae Gutzman.

The family would like to thank all friends and relatives who have been such support to Marcia through her difficult time. Special thanks to Access Hospice, specifically Niki, her nurse, and Amee, her aide, who became such wonderful friends and support to the family. Donations can be made in Marcia's memory to the American Cancer Society.