|
Besser Foundation |
|
Jesse and Anna Besser and the Besser Foundation
Herman and Hattie Besser farmed land in Buffalo, New York. It was there on May 21, 1882 that their son Jesse was born. A year later, they moved to Rust Township in northeast Michigan. Initially, Herman and Hattie sought to farm another piece of land, but the growing lumber industry created a career change for Herman, one he would enjoy and advance in, within a short period of time.
Young Jesse grew up during the lumber era, living in a peaceful rural community and attending one room schools. In 1898, his father moved the family. With the lumber industry about to close in Rust Township, Herman purchased a shingle and stave mill in a town called Alpena, Michigan. Jesse continued his high school education and took courses from Alpena Business College, along with assisting his father with the business.
In 1904, Herman purchased an old foundry for the manufacture of concrete block-producing machinery. This marked the birth of the Besser Company for father and son. The initial machinery model underwent many changes from its original form. In 1926, at the death of his father, Jesse became president of the company. Many hardships befell the business but, by 1954, the Besser Company produced as many as 26,000 blocks during an eight-hour day as opposed to 200 under the original block design.
A precise craftsman and efficiency expert, Jesse expected the same work ethic from his employees. Although known for his patience and gentle demeanor, he could become aggressive when dealing with the opposition. Yet, he was mainly known as a gentleman, a friend who had respect for everyone, including those of a different creed, color or status.
On August 30, 1906, Jesse married Anna Mulvena. Together, as friends, companions and partners, the two managed the business and began what would be a life filled with devotion and trust.
Over the years the company flourished. After gaining considerable wealth, Anna and Jesse organized the Besser Foundation in September, 1944, and the Jesse Besser Fund in December, 1960. Years later the two were merged into the Besser Foundation.
Known worldwide, Jesse Besser received recognition from his constituency by being awarded the Silver Medallion, a 1963 Citizen's Award by the Greater Michigan Foundation for his contributions to education. In 1969, on behalf of Pope Paul VI, Jesse received the highest Catholic commendation given to a layman, the Medallion and Ribbon of the Order of St. Sylvester, presented to him by the Bishop of Saginaw, Michigan.
The little town of Alpena hosted two birthday celebrations, one on Jesse's 72nd birthday in 1954, and the other for his 80th in 1962. Noting the span of eight years between the two, Besser remarked to the guests, "I can't wait until 1970." And what a party that would have been; however, Jesse Besser passed away 18 days before his 88th birthday.
