Roger Bessette, 1934-2009

Roger Bessette resident of Girouxville peacefully passed away after courageous, but tiring, battle with cancer. Roger was born on May 3, 1934 and passed on the morning of January 1 at the Sacred Heart Hospital in McLennan at age 74. Roger was a man of great faith, devoted to Mother Mary, a loving and caring husband, a wonderful father, a fun relative with a great sense of humour, a talented musician, an honest and loyal friend and a viable contributing member of the community. He was a hard working man, born a farmer, working the land with great care. He served his community in various ways; he was a Knights of Columbus, a Club Etoile board member, and he held various seasonal jobs in the community. Roger is survived by his loving family; wife Jeanne of 52 years, his four daughters; Dorine Bessette (Edmonton), Denise (Francois) Ouellet (Alberta Beach), Joanne (Richard) Lafond (Grande Prairie), and Carmen (Richard) Guindon (Falher). He is also survived by six grandchildren, four great grandchildren, two brothers Jules (Rejeanne) of Jean Cote and Gerard (Marie) of Leduc, and sister Pauline (Daniel) Klan of Kimberly, B.C. He was predeceased by his parents Doris and Adrien, sister Fern and brother Real. His enthusiastic and optimistic attitude was his great strength. He enjoyed life and all it brought. He was a generous and kind man to all who knew him. He was a strong man and showed great strength until the end and still had some enlightening words for all. His strong faith guided him throughout his life and especially during his last days. He has finally gone home to our creator to rest. He will greatly be missed by all who knew him. Funeral services for the late Roger Bessette were held Jan. 6 at 10:30 a.m. from the Notre Dame de Lourdes Roman Catholic Church in Girouxville with Father Maurice Marion officiating. Funeral arrangements were under the direction of Chapel of Memories in Peace River. Donations can be made to the Alberta Cancer Foundation.