WLKM Radio 95.9 FM
Jacqueline Roberta Besser, age 62, of Sturgis, Mich., passed away early Thursday morning, Jan. 13, 2011, at her home.
She was born Feb. 21, 1948, in Ashland, Ky., a daughter of the late Robert and Phyllis (Gates) Edmund.
Jackie had resided in Sturgis for the past 44 years, coming from Ashland, Ky., where she graduated from Boyd County High School with the class of 1966.
On May 17, 1969, she married Robert Besser in Sturgis.
Jackie retired from White Pigeon Community Schools in White Pigeon, following more than 20 years of employment as a secretary. Following her retirement, she worked at Willer’s Shoes in Sturgis. Before joining the White Pigeon Public Schools, she had been employed by the Citizens State Bank, American Laundry and Welty’s Music Store, all in Sturgis.
Jackie enjoyed shopping, playing Bingo and traveling.
She is survived by her loving husband of 41 years, Robert Besser; two sons, Damon Besser of Three Rivers and Ryan Besser of Kalamazoo; one sister, Jo (James) Sloan of Sturgis; and several nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents; and one sister, Jerri Stephens.
The family would like to extend their sincere thanks to all those that have supported them throughout Jackie’s hard fought battle with cancer.
In accordance with her wishes, cremation has taken place. There will be no visitation or services. Private burial of the ashes will take place at Golden Oaks Cemetery in Ashland, Ky., at a later date.
The Hackman Family Funeral Homes – Hackman Chapel, 114 S. Nottawa St. in Sturgis, is entrusted with the arrangements.
The family suggests those wishing to make a memorial donation in Jackie’s memory consider the White Pigeon High School wrestling program, 410 Prairie Ave., White Pigeon, MI 49099.
The obituary is also at www.hackmanfamilyfuneralhome.com, where personal messages of support may be left for the family.
