Edward E. Besonen

Edward Elwood Besonen of Hartland, WI, passed away peacefully on June 17, 2026, at the age of 80. Ed faced a brief illness with the courage, determination, and strength he had throughout his life.

Ed was born on August 10, 1945, to Peter and Martha Bessonen in Highland Park, MI. When he was young, the family relocated to Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Growing up in the “UP,” as locals call it, Ed and his two siblings, Marie and John, cherished the opportunity to live near so many relatives. Family was deeply important to them, and visits to relatives’ homes were a regular part of life. Among their most treasured traditions were Sunday sauna gatherings, a cherished Finnish custom that brought the family together each week to share a meal and enjoy a sauna.

Growing up, money was scarce, so Ed spent hours in his school library poring over weekly news magazines. Those experiences sparked an interest in politics and current events that led him to pursue a career as a history teacher. To pay his way through Northern Michigan University, he worked on construction crews. After teaching for a year in Michigan, he accepted an American History teaching position in West Allis, WI, in 1970.

While teaching in West Allis, Ed met the love of his life, Mary. They were married in Brown Deer, WI, on September 30, 1972. After enjoying youthful times in Milwaukee, they moved to Hartland, where Ed helped build their family home, and they began raising a family. Their son, Peter, was born in 1975, followed by their daughter, Ashley, in 1982.

Life in Hartland was filled with good friends, family and kids’ activities, and the peace of living away from the bustle of Milwaukee. During his summers away from the classroom, Ed continued working in construction to help support his family while earning his master's degree. Education and hard work were values he held dearly, and he often reminded Peter and Ashley to always work hard and be kind. Watching them grow into successful, caring adults was one of his greatest joys. As they left for college and began lives of their own, Ed concluded a distinguished 33-year teaching career. In recognition of his dedication to education and lasting impact on his students and community, the Mayor of West Allis proclaimed June 7, 2002, as "Ed Besonen Day," which was a great honor.

In retirement, Ed enjoyed many hobbies, including winemaking, working in his yard, traveling with Mary, fishing with dear friends, deer hunting in the UP, cheering on Michigan sports teams, attending his weekly happy hour at the Brass Monkey, and seeing just how many hours he could log at Planet Fitness each week. Yet nothing brought Ed greater joy than being a grandfather. First came Peter's children, Madeleine and Alex, followed not long after by Hudson and Emma. Whether he was attending their activities, sharing stories, teasing them with his quick wit, or simply spending time together, Ed had a remarkable way of making each grandchild feel like the most important child in the world. His boundless love, unwavering support, and playful spirit created memories that will stay with them forever.

In addition to being the best Grandpa ever, Ed was a devoted caregiver to Mary as she courageously battled dementia. His dedication never wavered. Even when he was ill himself, he found a way to be there for her. He remained by her side, ensuring she was cared for with love and dignity until her passing.

Ed was many things to his family and friends: a fiercely loyal Menards supporter; a lover of chips, ice cream, popsicles, port wine cheese, hard candy, lollipops, and coffee; a chipmunk hitman; a bird watcher; a master at finding the perfect shirt; an aggressive opener of bags and any other everyday item that stood between him and what was inside; an aspiring interior decorator; an avid movie watcher; a writer and storyteller; a die-hard Democrat and Michigan sports fan; a historian of the UP; a hard worker; a dedicated educator; and a fierce advocate for anyone he felt needed help or deserved better. He was endlessly curious about the people he met, a devoted husband and caregiver, a loyal friend, a loving father, and a proud grandfather. To his children, he was their indestructible hero.

Ed is survived by his daughter Ashley (Dustin) Wolfgram, Merton, WI, son Peter Besonen, Lannon, WI, and four beloved grandchildren, Madeleine, Alexandria, Hudson and Emma who brought immeasurable joy and pride to his life. He is also survived by his sister Marie (Dan) Sliger of New London, WI, and brother John (Chris) Besonen of Caro, MI.

Ed was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Mary; her parents, Walter and Ruth; and his parents, Peter and Martha Besonen.

A private service celebrating Ed's life will be held on what would have been his and Mary's 54th wedding anniversary, a fitting tribute to the enduring love they shared.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to a school district or educational organization in need, honoring Ed's lifelong commitment to education and the students he served.