May 8, 1925 – May 27, 2017
Bessie was born in Kelowna and lived here her entire life. She often reminisced about how wonderful it was to grow up in Kelowna. Bessie met and married her husband Rijn here and they almost always had a dog and a cat or two. She was an active member of many groups in Kelowna, including Business & Professional Women, Okanagan Historical Society, Canadian Club, Justice Council, Kiwassa and the United Church. Bessie was also recognized by the City of Kelowna – as Woman of the Year in 1989. She was the Coordinator for Meals on Wheels for 20 years. Affectionately called ‘Aunty B’, she always enjoyed time with her nephews, nieces and their families and especially her min pin Tequila.