Obituary of Coby Bessey

It is with great sadness that the family of Jacoba “Coby” Johanna Bessey, announce her passing on Thursday, December 29, 2022 at the age of 91 years. Coby is lovingly remembered by her children Donna (Colin) Hodel, James Redeker (Linda Oakley and her children Jennifer (Robert) Runzer and Alan Waugh); grandchildren April Smith and Christian Hodel (Skye Missick); and great-grandchildren Taylor Smith, Joel and Regan Runzer, and Cabri Waugh.  She is also survived by her sister Tina (Eldon) Scott and brother, Hans van Dam. Coby was predeceased by her husband William “Bill” Bessey; parents, Hendrikus and Martha van Dam; and sisters Johanna Culic, Ann Grootjes, and Marta Duquette.

Coby was born in Haarlem, Holland, as the third of six children.  Her childhood was difficult with the onset of WW2, and the Nazi occupation of her homeland between 1940 and 1945.  In the years following the war, she immigrated to Canada in 1953, with her first husband, and settled in Regina.

Together they built a life and a home, and raised two children, however they divorced in 1985 and went their separate ways.  Over many years as a fur finisher, Coby met Bill, to whom she married in 1995 and worked beside until they were in their early 80’s.  During their time together, they travelled North America, always looking for a new route to take, to see what interesting landmarks they may find.  Their travels took them as far as New Zealand, and they always cherished those moments. 

In 2014, as their age started to slow them down, Coby and Bill moved to Benson Manor, where they met many new friends and enjoyed many family visits, until Bill’s passing in 2018.  Coby remained in Benson Manor until, a few days after celebrating Christmas with family, she passed away peacefully.

Thanks to the wonderful care provided by Home Care, with special thanks to Mae, Carol, and Tinu, who became like family to all of us.  Also special thanks to Esther and Bernice, her Benson neighbours, for always taking the time to check on Coby.  We can never fully express our gratitude, for all they have done for mom, and for us.

Coby was a strong, but loving person, who welcomed anyone and everyone into her home.  If we had a friend that had nowhere to go for the holidays, she would always respond with “what the heck, bring them along”.  Our life-long friends and neighbors will always remember mom as a person with a warm heart, and welcoming smile, and a witty sense of humour, who was always willing to help someone in need.  With that in mind, in lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to: The Log House Thrift Store, 2741 Dewdney Avenue, Regina SK, S4T O6X.

As per Coby's wishes, a funeral service will not be held. A private interment will occur at a later date.