The family of Larry Besse is deeply saddened to announce his passing on February 10, 2010 at the Fraser Canyon Hospital. Larry slipped away peacefully after fighting a courageous battle with cancer.
Larry leaves to mourn his soul mate and best friend, Pat (nee Hoggan), and their eldest son, Trevor, his wife Vickie and children Shay, Brooke, Danica and Rachelle, and younger son, Jason, his partner Crissy and Crissy’s daughter, Jade. Grieving Larry’s passing is immediate family: mother Violet Besse, brothers Gary (Cathy), Doug (Dawn), Curtis (Shelley), “favourite” sister Sharon (Ross) and sister-in-law Lila as well as loving nieces and nephews Jeremy, Renee, Adrian, Adam, Anthony, Jessica, Dustin and Kelsey. Also saddened by the loss of Larry are many aunts, uncles and cousins. Larry was predeceased by his dear brother Donald (Doug’s twin) who passed on May 19, 1995, and beloved father, Gerry who passed on December 11, 2009. Larry was the eldest son of Violet and Gerry, and was born August 22, 1949 in Saskatoon, Sask. The Besse family moved to Boston Bar in 1962 and it was there that Larry met Pat. They married on July 24, 1971, and last summer celebrated their 38th anniversary. Pat and Larry and the boys moved to Hope in 1976. Larry worked in the logging industry, and was employed over the years by BCFP, Interfor, Cattermole and Pacific Custom Sort. He was known as a hard worker who was admired and respected by co-workers for his strong work ethic. Larry was happiest when coaching his sons and others in minor hockey and softball. Respect for the children was always uppermost in Larry’s approach to coaching, and those whom he coached remember and value the life lessons that he taught. Larry enjoyed so many things; he played hockey and baseball, loved to hunt, fish, golf and take family camping trips. Puttering around in his yard gave Larry so much enjoyment, and after a day of yardwork he and Pat were the happiest sitting by the fire pit in the backyard. “Life was good and full of love”. Larry loved to laugh, and having a good time visiting with friends and family was always so special to him. Above all he would extend a helping hand to anyone in need! In recent years the greatest joy for Pat and Larry was the birth of their two grandchildren, Shay and Brooke. Larry was a member of the Royal Canadian Legion, and the Fraternal Order of Eagles. In recent years he became very involved in a special project: Larry, Pat and Jason designed the Hospice Rest Area in 1998, and Larry asked his many friends if they would like to volunteer to make it happen! The response was positive and immediate, and the result is a beautiful place overlooking the Coquihalla River. It is a place for peace and quiet thoughts, and is enjoyed by patients, their families, the staff and the community. For many years Larry and his Dad spent their weekends having their coffee, watering flowers and cleaning the Rest Area. This was a very special time for Larry, and he took such pride in maintaining the area for the enjoyment of others.
The family would like to thank Dr. J. Greggain for the wonderful care that he gave Larry - Dr. Greggain was very special in Larry’s eyes. Also sincere thanks to Dr. Bradley, Dr. Murakami and the other physicians who supported Larry during his illness. To Dr. Kehler a special thank you for your visits.
The FCH Nursing Staff was exceptional, and the Besse family extends their heartfelt thanks to you all. We will never forget your remarkable care for our dear Larry. Thank you also to Home Care Nursing, and a huge thank you to Hospice Coordinator, Shelley Voje for her care, her support and the morning coffees.
Thank you to all friends who brought double-double coffees from Tim Hortons, and the old fashioned
donuts - how Larry did enjoy them! Thanks to Fraser Morgan for his companionship and his interesting stories.Larry will be laid to rest at the Royal Canadian Legion Cemetery at a family service on Saturday, February 27th. Family and friends are welcome to attend an open informal gathering on the 27th at the Royal Canadian Legion upstairs hall from 2:30 to 4:30, and a light lunch will be served.Larry’s wishes were for people to share memories, tell stories and above all enjoy each other’s company!
“WE WILL RAISE A LUCKY TO TOAST LARRY”
Flowers are gratefully declined. If you wish to make a donation in Larry’s memory the family would be pleased if they were directed to the Fraser Canyon Hospice Society, 1275 - 7th Avenue, Hope, BC V0X 1L4, and earmarked for “HOSPICE REST AREA”. Please feel free to send your condolences to the family
by email to condolences @moutainsidefuneralhome.com