Van Dillard Bess

Van Dillard Bess, 84, of Hartford, passed away Saturday, Jan. 17, 2015 at his home, surrounded by his family.

Van was born April 2, 1930 in Kennett, Mo., the son of Roscoe and Edith (Baker) Bess. After graduating from high school, he met the love of his life, Thelma Cooper, in a cotton field and married her on Jan. 19, 1952.

He worked as a shoe salesman at J.C. Penney in Missouri, before moving to Michigan. He continued in the clothing business at Abrams in Paw Paw and Hepps clothing store in Kalamazoo. Later, he would be employed at Michigan Fruit Canners in Coloma and finally retiring from S&K men's store in Benton Harbor.

Van's good - humored nature and friendly personality ironically earned him the nickname of "Van the Mean Old Man," which he proudly introduced himself as for years to follow.

After leaving the retail business, Van devoted his effort as a full - time farmer at his farm west of Hartford. You would often see Van at the fruit stand where you were always welcomed with a smile and story.

The family will welcome friends from 6 - 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 20, at the Calvin Funeral Home in Hartford. A celebration of Van's life will immediately follow with Ken Craig officiating. Van will be transported to McDaniel Funeral home in Kennett, Mo. and laid to rest at the Oak Ridge cemetery Jan. 23.

In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that donations in Van's name be made to Hospice Care of Southwest Michigan. Those wishing to leave memorial condolences for the family may do so at http://www.calvin-leonardfh.com.

Van is survived by three sons - Larry (Dianna) Bess of Lawrence, Kenny (Gayla) Bess of Hartford and John (Ami) Bess of Colorado Springs, Col.; 14 grandchildren; six great - grandchildren; a sister, Sue Ann (William) Trout of Cairo, Ill.; and a brother, Mac Bess of Denver, Col.

Van was preceded in passing by his wife, Thelma, on Sept. 11, 2008; his parents; a daughter, Vickie Bess; and a granddaughter, Valerie Bess.