Arron Patterson Besito was born in Southampton on Saturday, May 26, 1962, to proud parents Rowland and Mary (Mitchell) Besito. He was the second oldest of eight children, joining older sister Sylvia. In time they were joined by younger siblings Lennox, Lorie, Philomen, Helena, Corinna, and Eliza Jane. The Besito family resided on Saugeen First Nation, where the children attended public school at G.C. Huston in Southampton, before completing their high school at Saugeen District Secondary School in Port Elgin.
From an early age, Arron liked to try his hand at a variety of things. Through trial and error, he taught himself a variety of skills through the years. In time, he became a jack of all trades, but he was always happiest when working on automobiles. Simply put, he knew his way around a car and loved working on them. Many stories included his beloved, 1962 AMC Javelin. He loved that car – and I am told it was really fast too! Arron and the Javelin enjoyed their fair share of quarter mile sprints, which often ended with a victory.
In the early 1980’s, while enjoying the arcade in Southampton, Arron was introduced to Jeo-ann Strucke. The youngsters soon began dating and were later wed in September of 1985. They called Southampton home, with Arron working at the Mill in Hepworth. In time he got his DZ license and moved on to drive for Mark’s Supply Co. Together with Jeo-ann, they welcomed two daughters, Mandy in 1987, with Ashley making their family complete the following year. Arron worked hard to provide for his young family and would never miss a day of work. However, in 1991 he and Jeo-ann separated, with him moving back to Saugeen First Nation shortly after.
Arron enjoyed a very close relationship with his younger brother, Lennox. The two were inseparable, often living, working, and socializing together. If you saw one, the other usually wasn’t far away. In their free time, they enjoyed hunting and fishing together. Many stories were told of hunting adventures at Chiefs Point, with Stoney Creek being the go-to spot when it came to fishing. Their unique connection didn’t end there. In their younger years a story was told of how both brothers were enjoying a night out at different locations, when they both may have overconsumed their fair share. Unbeknownst to them, they ended their night in the same cell – which made for a lifelong tale!
Lennox had his own struggles, and sadly, he died by suicide in 2002. Arron was devastated and took his death very hard. Thankfully with the support of family and friends, Arron slowly rebounded from the monumental loss and returned back to work as a member of the Roads Department at Saugeen First Nation, where he often operated heavy equipment. In time, Arron’s own health issues forced him to step back a bit, and he spent his days in the shop as a diesel mechanic. However, in 2011, his declining health forced Arron into early retirement.
Through the years, Arron always looked forward to spending time with Mandy and Ashley. The time they spent together was always fun and full of laughs, and in more recent years Arron enjoyed getting to know his six grandchildren. A favourite pastime was “Going for Rides” with Mandy and Luke whereby Mr. Elvis Presley’s gospel music was always cranked. As many of you know Arron loved Elvis Presley and was in fact named after him, as Elvis’ middle name was Aaron.
Back at home music was always playing and often competed with the television too! Arron was not one for a quiet time but instead liked a party and being entertained. He enjoyed watching any true crime programs, unsolved mysteries, as well as martial arts. When it came to treating himself, Arron loved KFC, poutine, anything fried – particularly battered mushrooms, as well as chocolate cake. These treats were often accompanied by a warm (yes, you read that right) Budweiser – which was another “favourite” of Arron’s.
In recent months, Arron’s health declined further, and he was able to remain in his own home with the help and support of Saugeen First Nation Home and community care team, friends and family. Ace passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family on Saturday, January 25, 2025, in his 63rd year.
Loving father of Mandy Strucke (Luke Bowden) of London and Ashley Strucke-Emke (Michael Emke) of Hanover and grandfather of Amari, Royal, Westlynn, Reigner, Eilee, and Rio. Brother of Helena Besito, Jane (Brent) Smith, and Sylvia Besito, and brother-in-law of Lorne Mandawoub all of Saugeen First Nation. Arron was predeceased by his brothers Lennox and Philomen, sisters Lorie Mandawoub and Corinna Besito, brother-in-law Hubert John, niece Tiffany John, and his parents Rowland and Mary (Mitchell) Besito.
Family and friends are invited to call at Scotch Settlement Pentecostal Church (#222 Scotch Settlement Rd., Saugeen First Nation) on Wednesday, January 29, 2025, from 1 – 8 p.m. where a service honouring Arron’s life will be held on Thursday, January 30, 2025, at 1 p.m. Spring interment in Scotch Settlement Catholic Cemetery, Saugeen First Nation.
Memorial donations to the CNIB Foundation or the Canadian Mental Health Association would be appreciated as expressions of sympathy.
My love to all the family. I was lucky enough to meet and spend time with Arron , while working with the HCC . Him and I shared lots of stories and a few fun car rides together . He will be missed .
Sympathy to Arron’s family
Sending our condolences to you Ashley and your Family. Cherish the memories
Ashley, Mandy and family our deepest sympathy. Cherish all the great memories ❤️ Sending big hugs xoxo
Ashley and Michael our deepest sympathy in the loss of your father and grandfather
Condolences to the family 💐
Our deepest condolences to Ashley & Michael Emke and your entire family on the passing of your father and grandfather.
May your treasured memories help you at this sad time!
Uncle Morris Emke and Marlene
Ashley and family, our condolences to all of you. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Our condolences to the family
Sending prayers to the family.
Our condolences to Aces family Sheldon Solomon Deedee Johnston and family
Mandy, Ashley and family I am heartbroken for you. I hope you find peace and comfort in the peace he has found.
❤🙏
Very sorry for your loss Ashley and Mandy. Our sincere condolences. 💙
Condolences to the Aaron’s family and friends. Hugs and prayers to all.
From Brian & Cheryl George
My deepest condolences to the family. He was a great guy. We will miss him. Baamaapii 🦅
My condolences to the family, Arron was a sweet soft spoken guy who loved to make people laugh, you’ll be missed
RIP Arron . Sending our deepest Condolences to family. From Priscilla & Orion Southwind
My condolences to the family, he will be missed
Dear Mandy & Ashley we send our Sympathy & Love in the Loss of your Dad. He will be missed by family & friends. Paamaapii gawobmin (see you later) Love Prayers Hugs Ron & Shirley John, Saugeen.
My condolences to family
Dear Ashley and family
My sympathy to you and your family on the passing of your father.