Paul T. Besser 67, of Baldwinsville died Wednesday, June 18, 2003 at St. Josephs Hospital. He was born in Buffalo and lived in Baldwinsville the past 20 years. He retired in 1992 as Superintendent at the Central Square School District and was currently teaching History at OCC. Mr. Besser received his bachelor's degree from the University of Notre Dame and his doctorate degree from SUNY Albany. He had his own radio show, was an avid baseball enthusiast, and owned and operated Besser's Whistlestop, a model train store in Baldwinsville which will continue in operation.

Survivors: Wife of 44 years Arleen A. Besser; a daughter, Rebecca L. Croucher of Baldwinsville; three sons, Mark C. of Fulton, Thomas P. of Buffalo, and Kevin D. of United Arab Emirates; a sister, Mary Ann Lonsbery of Buffalo; three grandchildren, Rachelle E. Besser, Ryan C. Croucher and Alison E. Croucher; several nieces and nephews.

Services: 10:30am Saturday, June 21, 2003 at St. Mary's Church, 47 Syracuse Street, Baldwinsville. Burial, St. Mary's Cemetery. Calling hours are 2-4 & 6-9pm Friday, June 20, 2003 at the Falardeau Funeral Home, 93 Downer St., Baldwinsville.

Contributions: In lieu of flowers, to St. Mary's School Scholarship or Baldwinsville Little League.