Donald C. Bessette

Donald C Bessette Born to life on March 16, 1928 in Eland WI. Born to Eternal life on March 19, 2015. Devoted husband of Mary Bessette (nee Gramins-Kelly) for 22 years. Loving Father of Christine (the late Michael) Micka, Jeffrey Bessette, Paul (the late Kay) Bessette, Michele Bessette, & Claire Bessette. Cherished Grandfather of Joseph Micka, John Micka & Catherine (Joseph) Schmitz, Marc Bessette (fiancé Alanna Gabriel), Danielle Bessette & Jacob Bessette, Eric Bessette, Ryan Bessette, Justin Bessette & Noel (Daniel) Bersch, Arlen (Katie) Korpal & Tanya Korpal, & Nathan (Nicole) Stann. Great Grandfather of Marissa, Madelyn, & Myla Schmitz, Luc Bessette, Jacob & Jenna Bersch, & Chloe Korpal. Donald is also survived by Mary’s children Sondra Rae Kelly, Diane Kelly, & Alfred (Rhonda) Kelly, a niece, nephews, cousins and friends. He will be deeply missed by all. Don was preceded in death by his wife, Frances (Lynn) Bessette, infant son Joseph, parents Raymond and Bernice Bessette, brother Charles Bessette, and grand daughter Jennifer Stann. Don grew up in Wittenberg WI where he excelled in year round sports. He played football and was pursuing a teaching degree in History at UW-Milwaukee when he met his wife of 40 years and mother of his children, Lynn. Don retired from American Motors Corp after 38 years. Don was very devoted and loyal to his faith, family and friends. He was an active member of St James Catholic Church and in recent years, St Kilian’s Catholic Church. Donald stayed active in UAW Local 75 Union and Hartford Senior Friends up until his death. Don was an avid reader and history buff. He enjoyed traveling, hunting, fishing, sports, entertainment and music. He was an avid fan and proud season ticket holder of the Green Bay Packers since 1956. His family shared good times with him in all of these events. Don coached baseball and basketball for schools and leagues in Lannon and Sussex for many years. Don gave generously to many charitable organizations. He had a special place in his heart for the Veteran and Native American organizations and charities. The family gives special thanks and appreciation to those from Aurora Home Care, Cedar Communities, Cedar Home Hospice and Bright Star Visiting Nurses for their compassionate care of Don during his final weeks. Visitation is Saturday March 28th from 10-12 Noon at St. Kilian Catholic Church 264 State Street, Hartford, WI. Mass of Resurrection will follow at 12 Noon. Private Interment at St James Catholic Church. In lieu of flowers Memorials to St Kilian’s Catholic Church and St James Catholic Church are appreciated. The Berndt-Ledesma Funeral Home is serving the family. www.berndt-ledesma.com

Donald C. Bessette

March 16, 1928 - March 19, 2015