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Harold T. Besaw

Harold Besaw Obituary

Harold "Hal" Thomas Besaw (54) of Roseville was killed on July 3, 2014. Harold was born in Manitowoc Wisconsin and considered himself a "Wisconsin boy" even though he moved to Southern California as a toddler; he was proud of his Menominee Indian roots and Native American heritage ; Harold was known for his boisterous and enthusiastic personality. He was a big guy with a big heart. He was visiting his mother in Nevada Missouri to help her get her home in order. When she asked, he dropped everything to go to her side. He was an artist, his nature photography captured the beauty of the country he loved. Harold made friends for life, and considered them family. He is survived by his beloved wife of 26 years, Sheila, they were best of friends. She has the loving support of her sisters Sharon, Judy and Alison. Harold is also survived by his two older brothers Jeffrey and Steven, Jeff's wife Jeanne, nephews Jason, Jordan, Brett and Blake and niece Jessica, cousins and extended family; his 2nd family, Jeff, Beverly, Sarah, Ken and Larry Kaplan; his 3rd family, Don, Carol, Tom, Rick and Elese Talone. And of course, his fourth family, all of his friends whom he loved dearly. Life will be empty without his presence, he filled any room. In lieu of flowers, contributions to his memorial fund, Bank of America account 325031683809 and an email to [email protected] can be made.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Sacramento Bee on Jul. 19, 2014.

Memories and Condolences
for Harold Besaw

15 Entries

Todd

July 16, 2025

Hal was a good guy! Worked with him in the early 80´s in Bellflower Ca. After he moved to Sacramento we met up again and he introduced me to disc golf for which I´m still playing . My condolences to Sheila and the family RIP Hal

John Leeder

September 4, 2014

Harold is a great friend and I will miss him tremendously. We ran cross-country and track together. Had great times together. Shared our dreams of our futures, and debated on views of life together. My love to the Besaw family, those I know and family and friends I did not get to know. The memories will live on.

Rick and Elese Talone

August 3, 2014

Harold, my oldest friend, I still can't believe you're not in my life any longer. You never hesitated to volunteer your help whenever and wherever you could.

Your spirit was huge, filling a room when you entered it. Always considerate and gracious, always up for a good time, good food and wine. A great conversationalist you were.

Can you imagine what a better world it would be with a few more Harolds in it?

We will miss you forever our dear friend.

Michael Wiechers

July 27, 2014

"The time is gone the song is over
Thought I'd something more to say"
Gilmour, Waters, Mason, Wright

Thanks for our "Time" Hal.
No regrets, just fond memories.

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Steve Martinez

July 24, 2014

My deepest condolences to the Besaw family. I ran cross-country and track with Harold at Rancho Alamitos High School in Garden Grove, CA. I always enjoyed working out with him and going on long runs down the streets of Garden Grove. He was a talented runner and a hard worker. I recall hanging out with him at the running camp in Yosemite back in 1975. It was a fun week. I recall Harold as a kind and thoughtful team mate, and he never had an enemy, and was a friend to all. I chatted with acquaintances of the Rancho Alamitos distance running community, and all of us, including Coach Taylor, the Shipley brothers, and my brother Tony, all have fond memories of Harold. My mother recalls sitting with Fay, his mother, in the stands cheering on Harold at track meets. My thoughts and prayers are with the Besaw Family. Harold, you crossed the finish line, you ran the good race.

Audra Rupert

July 22, 2014

I feel blessed to have had a chance to know you and call you a friend. Rest in peace Hal. You will be missed my friend! My condolences to you Sheila and to the rest of your family.

Mark Mitnick

July 21, 2014

Oh, Hal. I will so much miss you. From our trips down the hill to convene with nature to gaming at Rick's house, we spent so much time together. It is hard to believe that you will not burst into the room Kramer style to announce your presence. I will think of you often as you are part of me now and I will carry you with me for the rest of my life, not without you but having you within me. I will smile every time I see the game sequence and any kind of fungus as they will always remind me of you! Cheers to one of the good guys! Thanks for our time together.

Ken Kaplan

July 20, 2014

Harold, forty five plus years of your friendship has been my honor and pleasure. You made this world a better place for me and many others. You will be missed, every day. Never thirst, water brother.

Don and Carol Talone

July 20, 2014

Harold.... You and your big smile will definitely be missed. Knowing you since you were very young you have always been a great friend. You left beautiful memories and a sorrow too great to be told. We will always remember and cherish the happy times together. Rest in peace dear friend

Bev, Jeff and Sarah Kaplan

July 19, 2014

Harold,
Brother,Friend,Uncle,your kindness, laughter, and unconditional love will will be sorely missed.

July 19, 2014

Mark Crusha

July 19, 2014

Hal, you were a great source of light in a World where there is so much darkness. I am so regretful about the loss of such a dear friend. You are gone , but will never be forgotten. I Love you brother.Mark Crusha

Judy Coyne

July 19, 2014

Harold, you will be eternally missed by your family and all who knew you especially my sister, Sheila.
Judy C .. Las Vegas, NV

Steve C

July 19, 2014

Harold was a big boy with a big heart when I knew him in the 1980s. That young man lit up any room with his laughter and charm.

Jeanne Besaw

July 19, 2014

It is no small comfort that he was so loved by so many. That boisterous laugh and huge all inclusive smile is sorely missed. Much love to you Sheila and all the Kaplans and Talones.

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