Age: 93
BESSEY, Carol I. (nee Dornan)
Paw Paw
Carol passed into the arms of the Lord Monday evening, Dec. 3, 2007, peacefully, in the home she dearly loved. She was born in Glenn, Michigan on Dec. 24, 1913. Carol was one of four girls born to Lee and Verna Dornan. Carol was married to Boyd G Bessey on Oct. 12, 1932, who preceded her in death in 1973. Carol was very active in the Methodist Church during the 50’s and 60’s. She was affiliated with many organizations including the Coterie Club, Disabled American Veterans Auxiliary, American Legion Auxiliary, Business and Professional Women, and political activities. She was a volunteer in the Grey Ladies organization for the Lakeview hospital, and active as a volunteer in many community activities. Carol was musically gifted on both the piano and organ, playing for area beauty pageants and dinner guests at area restaurants. She worked for a local garden label maker for many years. Carol loved her yard and the many trees. It was common for neighbors and friends to see her out in her yard raking leaves every day, even well into her 90’s. She loved the out-of-doors and would use any excuse to be outside in the yard that she loved. Carol was a member of First Assembly of God Church, Kalamazoo. Everyone Carol knew was greeted with a beautiful smile. She spent time at the Senior Day Center in Paw Paw sharing in activities with friends. Her daughter moved in with her to assist with her needs during the last year of her life. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Boyd; two sisters, Ardeth Daus of Niles and Dorothy Prehn of Lawton, and son-in-law, John Grudecki. Carol leaves behind her loving family; a son Boyd Thomas (Tom) Bessey and wife, Joanne; daughter, Carol Joy Grudecki; her sister Joyce (Robert) Banks; 4 grandchildren, 11 great grandchildren and 3 great-great grandchildren, many nieces and nephews and an abundance of friends. Family will receive friends Thursday 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. at the Adams Funeral Home, Paw Paw. Funeral services will be held Friday 11 a.m. at the First Assembly of God Church, Kalamazoo with Pastor Phillip McElhenny officiating. Memorial contributions may be made to the Assembly of God Church or Hospice of Southwest Michigan.
