Obituary of Bernadine Anne Besebes

In loving memory of Bernadine Anne (Skowronski) Besebes, known affectionately as Bernie or Leleng (and ”Bean” to those who knew her best), who departed this life on May 21, 2025. Born September, 17, 1967, Bernie traversed the span of her life with an intelligence, gentleness, and faith that touched the hearts of all who knew her.

Leleng was a light in the life of her beloved husband, Donaciano Besebes, and loved by her siblings: Ellen (Larkin) Whitlock, Danette (Troy) Taylor, and Christopher (Karen) Skowronski. Her spirit lives on in the laughter and tales of her numerous nieces and nephews. She was a cherished daughter, predeceased by her parents, Mathias and Barbara Skowronski, whose love and guidance shaped the remarkable woman she became.

Educated in the halls of Alma College, she furthered her quest for knowledge at Middlebury College (Vermont) and in Spain through their International Studies program. Her passion for teaching led her to the University of Cincinnati, where she attained her Master's degree in Literacy.

Bernie's journey was marked by her service in the Peace Corps, where, from 1996-1999, she dwelt amongst the people of Palau in Micronesia, imparting knowledge and fostering understanding. As an instructor in literacy at Union Commonwealth University in Barbourville, Kentucky (2006-2010), she shaped the minds of many. Her final act in the realm of education was to inspire as an instructor at Kirtland Community College in Grayling, Michigan, from 2012-2014.

Bernadine was a loyal member of the closest Catholic church, wherever she lived through her travels, often serving as liturgist and Ecumenical minister. When she wasn’t working, she was a voracious reader, finding solace and adventure within the pages of countless books, her mind ever expanding with the wisdom of the ages

Now, as we bid farewell to Bernadine/Bernie/Leleng/Bean, let us not wallow in woe, but celebrate the legacy she leaves behind. Let her memory be a guiding star to those who walk the path she once trod, and may her story be told with the same passion with which she lived her life.

Fare thee well, until we meet again. Rest in peace and may flights of angels sing thee to thy rest.

A Funeral Mass will be held on June 21, 2025 at Our Lady of the Lake, 1039 W Houghton Lake Dr, Prudenville, MI 48651, at 11:00 AM.

The family will receive friends on June 21, 2025, at Our Lady of the Lake at 10A.

In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider Memorial Contributions to Alma College (www.Alma.edu), King Nursing Center (2280 S Tower Hill Rd, Houghton Lake, MI 48629), or Heartland Hospice (now known as Gentiva, www.gentivahs.com). To sign online guestbook, visit www.cremationsocietymidmi.com Arrangements made with Cremation Society of Mid-Michigan.