BELCHERTOWN - John Rodman Besse, 92, of Daniel Shays Highway, died Saturday, May 15, 2010, at Willimansett West Nursing Home.

Born in Springfield, March 15, 1918, he was the son of Rodman L. and Mabel G. (Ritchie) Besse. He had resided in Granby for many years before moving to Belchertown in 1966. Professionally, John worked as an LPN for 20 years at the former Belchertown State School before retiring. An avid hunter, John was a lifetime member of the NRA and a member of Swift River Sportsmen's Club.

He is survived by his wife of 69 years, Frances (Codraro) Besse, along with a son, John R. Besse Jr. of Belchertown; a grandson, Richard W. Besse Jr. of Belchertown, along with two great-grandchildren, Tiffany Besse and Candace Bouffard, and great-great-granddaughter Angelise Rodrigues.

Besides his parents, his brothers, Richard W. Besse Sr. and Lester Besse, preceded him in death.

At the family's request, all services are private and have been entrusted to the Beers & Story Belchertown Funeral Home. For online guest book, please visit www.beersandstory.com.