Obituary of Michael Besko

Michael W. Besko, 39, died Friday, January 8, 2010 at home surrounded by his loving family following a HEROIC eight year battle with brain cancer. "That man is a success, who has lived well, laughed often and loved much. Who has gained the respect of intelligent men and the love of small children, who has filled his niche and accomplished his task. Who leaves the world better than he found it. Whether by a perfect poem or a rescued soul. Who never lacked appreciation of the earth's beauty or failed to express it, who looked for the best in others, and gave the best he had." We have lost a most special husband, father, son, brother and friend, much too early in his and our lives. He was born in Northampton, Massachusetts on November 15, 1970. He was a longtime resident of the town of Poughkeepsie. A 1988 graduate of R.C. Ketcham High School and a 1992 Magna Cum Laude Graduate of SUNY New Paltz. Mike had a very successful career as an executive in the mortgage industry. Michael met his bride Christia Mohan Besko 17 years ago and together they built a beautiful life and family. Michael was the very, very proud father of Kevin Francis Besko and Kiley Joann Besko. Michael's children were the center of his heart and soul. He will be sorely missed by his beloved dog, Finlee who was by his side through all his ups and downs throughout his battle. Although an avid athlete since early on in life and dedicated sports enthusiast, Michael's favorite moments were watching his kids play sports on the local fields. A fun-loving personality, Michael had an easy smile, a contagious laugh, and a quick wit. Another way Michael's passion for life was reflected was through numerous family vacations and business trips. He loved to get out on the golf course with his friends and especially with his father, with his enthusiasm of the sport taking him across the country. Michael treasured trips to Fenway Park as a tried and true Boston Red Sox fan. His no fear attitude led him to many adventures including sky diving, bungee jumping, the depths of the Grand Canyon, and so much more. The loss of Michael to his family and friends is profound, and the impact he had on their lives will last forever. Michael was the beloved son of Dennis and Joanne Besko of Poughkeepsie, loving brother to Heidi Besko Piazza and her husband Brian Piazza of Beacon, loving brothers-in-law Mark Mohan of Poughkeepsie and Frank and sister-in-law, Sandy Mohan of California. He was an amazing Uncle to Ashlynn and Taylor Mohan of Poughkeepsie, Samantha and Justin Piazza of Beacon and Brandon Mohan of California. He was the dear grandson to Patricia Vachon of Easthampton, Massachusetts and the loving son-in-law to Joann Mohan of Poughkeepsie, formerly of California. Michael is also survived by many special aunts, uncles and cousins. Michael was predeceased by his father-in-law, Francis Xavier Mohan; his close friend and mentor, his much-loved grandfather William Vachon and grandmother Jennie Besko, and his beloved "man's best friend" of 17 years, Buddee. Visitation will be Tuesday, January 12th from 3-7pm at Timothy P. Doyle Funeral Home Inc., 371 Hooker Ave, Poughkeepsie. There will be a Mass on Wednesday, January 13th, 12:00 pm at Blessed Kateri Church in LaGrange with Father Armand Pedula officiating. Cremation will be at the convenience of the family.