Arleen A. Besser, 65, of Baldwinsville passed peacefully away into heaven Wednesday, June 23, 2004 at Crouse Hospital after a long battle with mesothelioma (cancer). Arleen, a native of Buffalo, began her career as an Executive Secretary for Westinghouse opting to leave in 1961 to begin her true love – raising and caring for her children. She returned to work in 1984 as a Legal Secretary for Ledden Law Office, from where she retired in 1996. She spent her remaining years joyfully looking after her grandchildren and helping others. When she found time, she loved to visit with friends, play cards, work in the yard, and travel (especially to Notre Dame football games). Arleen will always be remembered for her kind heart, and her warm and caring nature towards all. She is pre-deceased by her husband of 44 years, Paul T. Besser.

Survivors: a daughter, Rebecca L. Croucher of Baldwinsville; three sons, Mark C. Besser of Fulton, Thomas P. Besser of Buffalo, Kevin D. Besser of Baldwinsville; two sisters; Marian Smyth of Orchard Park, NY, and Margaret Newton of East Amherst, NY two brothers; William Bitterman of Ravenna, OH, and Thomas Bitterman of Orchard Park, NY three grandchildren; Rachelle E. Besser; Ryan C. Croucher; and Alison E. Croucher; and several nieces and nephews.

Services: 12:00pm Monday, June 28, 2004 at St. Mary's Church, 47 Syracuse St.. Baldwinsville. Burial in St. Mary's Cemetery, Calling hours are 2-6pm Sunday, June 27, 2004 at the Falardeau Funeral Home 93 Downer St. Baldwinsville.

Contributions: Transitional Living Services (family support and education center) 420 E. Genesee St, Syracuse, NY 13202 or Vera House, PO Box 365, Syracuse, NY 13029.