Henry A. Bessette

LATHAM - Henry A. Bessette, 82, died peacefully on Sunday, December 24, 2017.

Born in North Adams, MA on September 24, 1935, Henry was predeceased by his parents, Henry Z. and Florence (O'Brien) Bessette; brother, Lawrence Bessette and sister, Jacqueline Lynch. Henry is survived by his beloved wife of 58 years, Helen A. (Wilkins) Bessette. Raised in Cohoes, NY, Henry graduated from St. Joseph's school and then from Mount Assumption Institute in Plattsburgh, NY. He proudly served in the United States Army as a medic before graduating from St. Michael's College in Colchester, Vermont. Henry then enjoyed a successful career working as a pharmaceutical sales representative and later as a business owner. Henry had a great sense of humor, was fluent in French, and enjoyed spending time with family and friends. He was also an avid collector of military memorabilia.

In addition to his wife, Henry is survived by his beloved children; son, H. Bryan Bessette (Reneé Bessette) of Malta, NY and daughter, Sharon Davis (James Davis) of Brighton, MI; grandchildren; Bryan P. Bessette (Dana Bergmann) of Schaghticoke, NY and Jourdan and Patrick Davis of Brighton, MI; sister, Lois Guzema of Wilmington, DE; brother-in-law, Frederick Wilkins; nephews, Lee and Keith Wilkins; and niece, Whitney Wilkins.

The family would like to sincerely thank the staff of Van Rensselaer Manor for the compassionate care and tireless support they provided Henry and his family since 2015.

Calling hours will be held at New Comer Cremations & Funerals, 181 Troy Schenectady Road, Watervliet, NY 12189 on Thursday, December 28 from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m., where a prayer service will begin at 7:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions be made to the Van Rensselaer Manor, 85 Bloomington Drive, Troy, NY 12180.

To leave a special message for the family online, visit NewComerAlbany.com