DONALD J. BESSETTE, SR

63, of Johnston, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on Thursday, February 9, 2012 at the Veterans Administration Medical Center, Providence. He was the beloved husband of forty-one years to Ann Marie (Cardillo) Bessette. Born in Providence, he was a son of the late Raymond B. and Louise (Clough) Bessette. Donald was a production control manager for the former Leviton Manufacturing Company for over ten years before his retirement. He was also employed by the former Builders Iron Foundry of East Greenwich. Donald was a US Navy veteran serving in the Vietnam War. He was a member of the BPOE Lodge, Smithfield. Donald was a resident of Greenville Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation Center and served as President of the Resident Council. He was an avid NY Yankee and NASCAR fan, and also enjoyed spending time on his computer which allowed him to stay connected to his family and friends.

Besides his wife he is survived by his loving children, Dana M. Horton and her husband Brian of Westerly, and Donald J. Bessette, Jr. of Johnston. Donald was the cherished grandfather of Matthew, Sophia, and Colin Horton. He was the brother of Barbara Sample of Warwick, and Raymond Bessette of Johnston.

Funeral from the NARDOLILLO FUNERAL HOME & Crematory, 1278 Park Avenue, Cranston on Tuesday at 8:30 a.m. followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 9:30 a.m. in Our Lady of Grace Church, George Waterman Road, Johnston. Interment will be in St. Ann Cemetery, Cranston. VISITING HOURS Monday 4-8 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Multiple Sclerosis Society, 205 Helene Road, Suite 209, Warwick, RI 02886.

---