Obituary of William Lewis Besaw

William Lewis Besaw was born on June 10, 1929 in St. Regis Falls, New York to Grace Bruce and William Besaw. Bill had many half siblings and was able to grow up in part with some of them as his mother raised him in upstate New York. Bill went to be with the Lord on September 11, 2023 surrounded by those that loved him. 

Bill was married to Hannah Cecelia Trumpour on July 17, 1948 in Locke, New York. They shared 72 wonderful years together before her passing. In the last few years, we have been graced with many stories about the love that they shared. 

Bill and Hannah served the Lord through many ministries, including extensive work with New Tribes Missions (Ethnos 360). They were able to facilitate and help with the move and construction of the campus now standing today in Roach, Missouri. Bill and Hannah also owned and operated a business called Missionary Transportation which allowed furloughed missionaries the use of vehicles for travel. Bill also preached at churches in Cross Timbers and Edwards, Missouri.

Bill was well known in the tree service business, most commonly for Bill’s Tree Service, operating at and around the lake for over 30 years. During those many years, he worked for many municipalities as well as many individual homeowners. It was quite common to be sharing a meal at a restaurant and have someone approach to say hello because Bill had done a job on their property years back. These friendly people simply wanted to stop by, say hello and catch up. 

As we look back, we are surrounded by the evidence of a life well lived. A life that impacted many. In his faith, in his business and in his family. Children who will never forget his love for them and their mother.  Grandkids who will never forget playing with Grandpa and his beloved dog Lucky. After dinner, each grandkid would run to touch Grandpa in a fun game of touch me last while trying not to get nipped by the dog. Great grandkids who shared Wednesday night dinner with him each week. We love you. 

While tears fall from our eyes, and our hearts feel broken, we remember that in grief we have hope eternal. A hope that Grandpa taught us about each time we were with him. A light in the darkness, a Lord that loves us with grace and mercy. Grandpa is standing in His presence and waits patiently to welcome us alongside. 

Bill joins in Heaven his beloved wife, Hannah and son Raymond Besaw. 

Surviving family includes his son, Ronald Besaw, and daughters Rita and Phil Davenport, and Renee and Mike Kingston. His grandchildren, Rachel and Robert Buske, Ranita and Shannon Burris, Sarah and Aaron Ragle, Grant and Brandy Davenport, Josh and Hope Kingston, and Michael and Heather Kingston. His great grandchildren, Austin and Mackenzie Buske, Noah and Alexis Simmons, Saige Simmons, Emma, Cace, and Ridley Ragle, Vincent and Jayse Davenport, Brionna, Gaven, Rhys, and Lily Kingston. Also surviving are many nieces, nephews, and friends that we hold dear as family. 

When reflecting on his life in recent years he loved saying ‘Not bad for a barefoot boy from Brushton.’

Services will be held on Saturday, October 7, 2023 at New Home Baptist Church in Camdenton, Missouri at 3:00pm. A Visitation will also be held at New Home Baptist Chruch prior to the service from 1:00pm to 3:00pm.