Edward Francis Bessette
July 18, 1936 - August 31, 2006
FAIRFAX - Edward Francis Bessette, age 70, passed away on Thursday, Aug. 31, 2006, at his residence in Fairfax surrounded by his loving family. He was born on July 18, 1936, in St. Albans, Vt. to the late Francis and Reba (Ellsworth) Bessette.
Edward graduated from Bellows Free Academy in Fairfax in 1954. He continued to work on the family farm until he enlisted in the U.S. Army and was stationed at Fort Dix, N.J. On one of his trips home, he met Carol, which led to his decision to return to farming and start a family. He continued as a member of the Vermont Army National Guard.
Edward was a dedicated, loving husband, father and grandfather. Long hours of daily farm chores did not prevent him from sharing the responsibilities of running a Town as well. He served as Selectman and Lister for more than 10 years. His pride in his “School” prompted continued support for the growing needs of our school system. He enjoyed his many years as a bus driver. He played tuba in the Fairfax Westford Band. This became a family affair as Carol, Ted, Lynda, Roger and Dee all played instruments and joined in. After 30 years on the family farm, he retired and was able to spend precious time in his new role as Grandpa, and pursue his interest in genealogy.
As soon as he was eligible, he became an active member of the Fairfax Senior Citizens and served as Treasurer. He enjoyed the opportunity to visit with friends and eat the best lunch one could have as a bonus. Retirement gave him more time to share with family and longtime friends, Lee & Louise Minor, Reg & Joyce Barkyoumb, Gerry & Marilyn Minor, Bill & Nancy Orcutt, and David & Janet Minor, and many others too numerous to list. His three years as a snowbird was an added enjoyment. Though Edward was a man of few words, the memories of times spent with him will be cherished by his family and friends.
Our heartfelt thanks goes out to his dedicated, caring doctors and nurses, especially Dr. John Fitzgerald and Dr. John Saia. His wish to spend his last days at home was made possible through the skilled and compassionate care provided by the Franklin County Home and Hospice Program.
He is predeceased by his sister, Charlene Matthews on Oct. 14, 2005. He is survived by his loving wife of 44 years, Carol (Ryan) Bessette; his son, Thomas “Ted” Bessette and wife, Christine of Fairfax and their children, Patrick and Lara; his son, Roger Francis Bessette and wife, Crystal of Richmond, Va. and their children, Brooke and Brittany; his daughter, Lynda (Bessette) Allen and husband, John of Oswego, Ill.; his daughter, Darlene (Bessette) Coon of Fairfax and her children, Erin, Nick and Matt, and their father Kevin; three brothers, William Bessette and wife, Mary of Swanton, Frederick Bessette and wife, Judi of Nashotah, Wis., Thomas Bessette and wife, Roberta of Munson, Mass.; two sisters, Brenda Thibault and husband, Sylva of Fairfax, Lisa Minor and husband, Marvin of Fairfax; three brothers-in-law, Earle Matthews of Essex, Dennis Ryan of Vancouver, BC, Richard Hoerner and wife, Wendy of Ottawa, Canada; one sister-in-law, Mary Hopp and husband, Donald of Portland, Mich.; two aunts, Rita Bessette of Fairfax, Beatrice Bessette of St. Albans; and several nieces, nephews and many cousins.
Visiting hours were held on Monday, Sept. 4, 2006, from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. at the A. W. Rich Funeral Home – Fairfax Chapel. A Mass of Christian Burial was held today, Sept. 5, 2006, at 11 a.m. at the St. Luke’s Catholic Church with the Rev. Francis Connors officiating. Burial will follow in the family lot in the St. Luke’s cemetery in Fairfax.
Memorial contributions in Edward’s memory may be made to the Friendly Neighbors Senior Citizens, P.O. Box 246, Fairfax, Vt. 05454, or Franklin County Home Health Agency, Inc. 3 Home Health Circle, St Albans, Vt. 05478. Those who wish can forward their online condolences by visiting
www.awrichfuneralhome.com.
Arrangements are by John D. Workman, A. W. Rich Funeral Home - Fairfax Chapel, 1176 Main St., Fairfax, Vt. 05454.[/b]
