Robert A. Bessette
1935 – 2024

West Springfield- Robert "Joe" Bessette, 89, died peacefully Wednesday morning with his caregivers by his side.  Bob was born in Springfield oldest son of the late Arthur and Jean (Laporte) Bessette and has lived in West Springfield his entire life.  He was a 1954 graduate of West Springfield High School and was the last living member of the1952 State Hockey Championship team. Growing up in West Springfield, Robert was one of the original "Rink Rats" in the Memorial Avenue neighborhood.  He was inducted into the West Springfield Sports "Hall of Fame" as a member of the Hockey Team and inducted into the Massachusetts Sports "Hall of Fame: as one of the original "Rink Rats" at the Eastern States Coliseum under the guidance of Eddie Shore.  He worked as a greenskeeper at Crestview Country Club for over 40 years.  He also was an avid bowler playing in local leagues for 40 years.  He was a sports fan all his life and followed the Lions, Canadians, Lakers and Tigers!!  Uncle Bob spent most of his time following the sports careers of his nephew Paul and great nephew Paul. He went to every game from elementary school through High School for two generations.  Besides his parents he was predeceased by his brothers Norman and Doni Bessette; nephew Robert Bessette and his niece Kelly Frenette.  He leaves his nephew, guardian and caregiver Paul Bessette, a niece Kim Bessette, Paul's former wife and Bob's girlfriend Tracy Cecchetelli, a lifelong friend Ned and his devoted pets Dexter and Simba.  He was also great uncle to Paul, Rachael, Jillian, Dylan, Joshua, Samantha and Gretchen.  The family would like to thank Greater Springfield Senior Services A.F.C. Program, especially Jennie Sousa, the CCA Program and Bear Mountain Hospice Care for the loving care provided over the years for Bob.  A celebration of life for Robert A. Bessette will be held in the spring at a time to be announced.  The West Springfield Curran-Jones Funeral Home is handling all arrangements.  Please visit curranjones.com for more information.  In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Shriner's Hospital, 516 Carew Street, Springfield, MA 01104.