Obituary of Beckie Rossini

A resident of Chatham, Rebecca Jean (Bec) Rossini passed away at the Chatham-Kent Hospice on March 18th at the age of 73, after fighting a long, hard battle very bravely. 

Beloved wife and best friend of 33 years to her husband Ric. 

Bec was the daughter of the late Milton and Jean (Johnston) Bailey and grew up on the family farm in Raleigh Township. 

Daughter-in-law to the late Audrée and Angelo Rossini.

Loving mother to Kellie Higgins (Ki) and stepmother to Simone (Rossini) Bonello (Carl).

Loved Grandma to Regan, Trevor, Tristan, Haiden, Scarlett and Alexis. Great Grandma to Parker, Sophie and Reece.

Bec was the sister of Greg Bailey, David Bailey, the late Jack (Bev) Bailey and the late Beth Bailey. Sister-in-law to Randa (late Alex) Speller, Rae-Ann (Glen) Rossini, Rodd (Maureen) Rossoni, Rory Rossini and Russell (Steve) Rossini.

There is much to say about the life of Bec. Together with Ric they built a beautiful life and a lovely home with lush gardens. They travelled the world; Ric had Bec listed as “Travel Agent” in his contact list. Bec did all the travel planning, and her research included places of interest as well as where to find good food and wine. They made many great friends on these trips. She loved a good book, a swim in the pool on a sunny day and lunching with girlfriends. An excellent cook, she loved trying new recipes and hosting friends and family for dinner. Her warm hospitality, hosting many family gatherings with such an easy going presence and welcoming all who came with love, was very special and made everyone feel right at home.

She had a love for all animals, but especially cats and gave many a nice home. 

Bec was a generous and caring  community volunteer to Chatham-Kent Hospice, Operation Cover-up, Beds for Kids and Good Neighbours.

She was kind and funny, interesting and straight forward. She was brave and strong and beautiful. She was an optimist, but a realist and she never complained. A woman with a great sense of humour who made a difference in the lives of many. There is everything to miss about Bec.

Special thanks to Dr. Mark Vincent, oncologist at LHSC for his exceptional care and concern over the past 12 years and to the oncology staff at the Chatham- Kent Health Alliance for their support. Many thanks and appreciation to Dr. Huffman for his kindness and compassion and the staff and volunteers of Chatham-Kent Hospice. Each and every one of you provided such gentle care and kindness to Bec, especially in her final days.

Donations in Bec’s memory to Chatham-Kent Hospice would be greatly appreciated at: chathamkenthospice.com or by cheque to: 

Chatham Kent Hospice Foundation, 34 Wellington St. E, Chatham, Ontario, N6M 3N7. Online condolences may be left at: www.mckinlayfuneralhome.com

Friends and family are welcome to Bec’s Celebration of Life at the McKinlay Reception Centre, 463 St. Clair Street, Chatham, Ontario on April 8th from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM.

McKinlay Funeral Home, 459 St. Clair Street, Chatham, 519-351-2040