Cynthia Kay Bessey

Cynthia Bessey, of Canton, Michigan, passed away on February 14, 2023, with her beloved children by her side. She was 68 years old.

Cindy was born April 8, 1954, to Marie Walters in Colorado Springs, CO. She was raised by her grandparents, Paul and Esther Walters, in Council Bluffs, IA where she lived across the street from her lifelong friend Susie (Konfrst) Rudy whose family became Cindy’s family. After graduating from Thomas Jefferson High School in 1972, Cindy married Keith Bessey in 1974 and had two children, Brent and Michaela. Cindy and Keith owned and operated Mr. B’s and River City Saloon in Council Bluffs and W.C. Copperfield’s restaurant in Estes Park, CO before moving their family to Minnesota and then Michigan where Cindy lived the remainder of her life.

Cindy is survived by her children and their spouses, Brent and Rebecca Bessey of Steamboat Springs, CO and Michaela and Sean Ryan of Exeter, NH; her grandchildren, Emma and Lance Bessey and Macy Ryan; her brother, Steven (Jean) Williamson, and nieces, Angela (David Coon) Williamson, Amy (Tim) Ferriter, and Sheri (Ben) Geffre; and her longtime friend and partner, Jon Gamble, his children, Justin (Rebekah) and Brandon (Katie) Gamble, and his grandchildren Jordyn, Jenna, Jillian, Jakob, Noah, Owen, Hazel, and Clara Gamble.

Cindy enjoyed time with her family, the hot sun, endless cups of coffee, the sound of her windchimes, Iowa-grown tomatoes, a warm bubble bath, the excitement of a hockey game, and a good carrot cake. Her children and grandchildren were her pride and joy. She leaves her family with memories of her laughter, her perfected Thanksgiving rice recipe, the tradition of cinnamon rolls on Christmas morning, and most of all, her endless love.

Brent, Michaela, and Jon would like to thank Arbor Hospice of Ann Arbor for their compassionate help and support in caring for Cindy. In lieu of flowers or donations, the family requests that you honor Cindy’s life by living yours to the fullest. Don’t wait for tomorrow to do the things you dream of today. Take the vacation. Eat the cake!