November 11, 1928 - July 24, 2021
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved mom, Violet Mae Besse, on July 24, 2021. She was born in Birsay, Saskatchewan on November 11, 1928.
Vi led a full life, moving from Saskatoon in 1962 with spouse Jerry, and children Larry, Gary, Donald, Doug, and Sharon to Boston Bar where their youngest child, Curtis was born. Vi worked at Carlson's store where she made many friends and acquaintances, finally retiring when they moved to Hope in 1993.
Having raised five boys and a girl, Vi was a wonderful, caring, and strong woman. She will be forever remembered for her hospitality and for always feeding everyone and anyone that would come to their home in Boston Bar. No one ever left hungry! Even Christmas dinners were extended to an undetermined number of guests and welcomed many.
Violet is survived by her daughter Sharon (Ross), and her sons, Gary (Cathy), Doug (Dawn), and Curtis (Shelley) as well as her grandchildren, Jessica, Dustin, Kelsey, Leanne, Jeremy, Renee, Desiree, Derek, Tracy, Shelly, Trevor, Jason, Adrian, Adam, and Anthony.
She is also survived by her great-grandchildren, Brook, Shay, Ava, Declan, Oliver, Miles, Maverick, Ryker, Ali, Aden, Rebecca, Emma, Travis, Megan and Sam and also her great-great grandchildren, Kylie, Tyrone, and Nathan. She also leaves behind many nieces and nephews.
Vi was predeceased by her beloved husband, Jerry, of 60 years, sons Donald (Lila) Larry (Pat) and sisters Irene, Dorothy, Emma, and Gurty.
Violet and Jerry very much enjoyed camping and spending time with family and friends RV-ing in their motorhome. She loved her family and enjoyed visits from everyone. Since the COVID restrictions began, she loved to play Yahtzee with her daughter over daily FaceTime calls from Banff. She also greatly enjoyed going to the Casinos and playing slots.
Vi also liked to play cards with friends at Park St. Manor and having meals with the "Lunch for the Bunch" and was looking forward to when the COVID restrictions would be lifted and life could return to somewhat normal. She also looked forward to tea in the mornings with Doug and he always looked forward to her home baked cookies and muffins.
Vi loved to go boating with Curtis and Shelley, even though she couldn't swim, she was such a good sport. She also loved a visit from Gary and Cathy, it was always a wonderful whirlwind of fun.
Our Mom was amazing with new technology. At 92, she was still using her computer and her IPhone, texting all her family and friends. She upgraded her phone recently and was thrilled to be able to get emoji's. We always enjoyed her texts, as well as had fun deciphering her made-up abbreviations.
Flowers are respectfully declined. Donations in Vi's memory can be made to the Fraser Canyon Hospice Society and directed to the HOSPICE REST AREA 1275 7th Ave. Hope, B.C. V0X 1L4.
The family would like to thank Dr. Janz and the Fraser Canyon Hospital Emergency staff for your kind words and care. Vi's wishes are for a small family service, a date to be determined later.