Lydia M. Pedersen, age 74 of Big Rapids, passed away Saturday, January 26, 2008. She was born September 18, 1933 in Flandreau, South Dakota to Byron and Marie (Parsell) Brophy. Her family moved to Big Rapids in 1946 when Mr. Brophy accepted the position as president of Ferris Institute. Lydia was a 1952 graduate of Big Rapids High School. She married Glen W. Pedersen on July 27, 1973. Lydia had worked at Ferris State College; in the Bookstore and in the Registrars office and she later worked at the Big Rapids Kmart until her retirement. Lydia was a life member of the V.F.W. Post #4102 Auxiliary and a member of the American Legion Post #98 Auxiliary, both of Big Rapids. She was a dedicated Girl Scout, as both a troop leader and as a member her entire life. Lydia was instrumental in the development of the Big Rapids W.I.S.E. organization and she assisted with Isabella County's shelter. She is survived by;2 children; Patti (Wade) Sova of Big Rapids and Robert Brophy of Webster, New Hampshire. A sister; Patricia Brophy-Wall of St. Petersburg, FL,3 Step-children; George Pedersen of California,Glen (Patti) Pedersen of Crystal Lake, IL,Martha J. (Ken) O'Neil of Morley and several step-grandchildren. Lydia was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Glen W. Pedersen on October 19, 1998 and an infant daughter, Roberta. Cremation has taken place. Lydia's family will greet friends 3:00 p.m. Wednesday, January 30th at the Immanuel Lutheran Church in Big Rapids for a time of sharing memories of her life. There will be a light luncheon provided for guests at the church. In honor of Lydia's love for animals, memorial contributions are requested to; The Angel Program, 7932 Saddler Road, Chase, MI 49623.