Obituary of Bessie Kominek

KOMINEK: Bessie (Bess) Rose - 

In loving memory of Bess Rose Kominek, born January 6, 1930 in Chtelnica, Czechoslovakia, and peacefully passed away on November 14, 2023. Bess' life was a testament to love, faith, and perseverance.

Bess faced the challenges of life with grace and resilience. Her heart endured the loss of her beloved husband, Frank, in 1986, as well as her daughter, Janet, and son-in-law, Rick, in 2020. Despite these hardships, Bess remained a pillar of strength for her surviving children: Joanne and (late) Eric Stewart, Jim and Mary-Lou Kominek, John and Shelley Kominek, and Pat and Ben VanderGriendt. She is also survived by grandchildren Robyn (Randy), Allison (Jason), Chris (Kerri), Katherine (Chris), Luke (Erin), Paul (Jessica), Rob, Brett (Ruth Anne), Andrea (Scott), Kristen (Shawn), Michelle (Kyle) and Brianna (Andrew), as well as 34 great-grandchildren who will miss her greatly.

Bess’ life was a melody of faith, family, and community. Alongside her husband, Frank, they toiled on their family farm, first in Dawn Township, before settling on the farm in Blenheim in 1963. Together, they cultivated not just crops but a partnership steeped in dedication and hard work. They also spent many evenings laughing with friends and family, enjoying card parties, bowling league, and cribbage. Bess cherished moments spent with her children and grandchildren, especially when the Scrabble board emerged. She relished these moments, imparting wisdom and wordplay throughout spirited matches with her family.

Bess was a member of St. Mary’s Church in Blenheim for decades, then St. Michael’s Church in Ridgetown after moving from the family farm. For years, she shared her passion for worship as a dedicated member of the St. Mary’s Choir, filling the sacred space with the beauty of her voice. Her commitment to her church community extended to her 52-year membership in the Catholic Women’s League, where she forged lasting bonds of friendship. Additionally, Bess lent her talents to St. Mary’s quilting group, weaving together threads of camaraderie and warmth.

Bess' legacy extends beyond her familial bonds. She touched the lives of many with her kindness, compassion, and unwavering commitment to her beliefs. Her spirit will be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

In this time of sadness, we celebrate the life of Bess and find solace in the cherished memories she leaves behind. 

Family will receive friends at the Funeral Home, 76 Main Street East, Ridgetown on Sunday, November 19, 2023 from 2:00 - 5:00pm. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Michael's Roman Catholic Church, 26 George Street, Ridgetown at 11:00am on Monday, November 20, 2023. Interment to follow at Evergreen Cemetery, Blenheim. 

To honour her wishes, donations can be made to Heart & Stroke Foundation. 

Online condolences may be left at www.mckinlayfuneralhome.com

McKinlay Funeral Home

76 Main Street East, Ridgetown

519-674-3141