April 8, 1961 - October 10, 2024
Steve Besley, 63, passed away surrounded by his loving family following a two-year battle with cancer.
The third of four sons, Steve was raised on a family farm in Shelburne, Ontario, and learned the value of hard work early on. Driven to succeed, Steve was an honour roll student and Ontario Scholar. He balanced academics with involvement in 4H Clubs and Junior Farmers and won multiple dairy and field crop awards. Steve managed bee hives, trained heifers for shows, and was active in many community and philanthropic efforts. Steve attended the University of Waterloo and graduated with a Bachelor of Commerce.
Steve met his wife and lifelong partner, Chris Williams, working at Mutual Life in Waterloo. Together, they ventured west in pursuit of a new adventure, settling in Sechelt on the Sunshine Coast of British Columbia to raise their family and start a business. Steve and Chris co-founded Benefit Innovations, a trusted employee benefits consultancy serving clients across BC. Steve's entrepreneurial spirit, disciplined approach and unwavering moral compass made him a fierce advocate for his clients. He cherished his relationships with clients, colleagues, and his family at Strategic Coach.
An ardent lover of the outdoors, Steve found great joy in kayaking around the Trail Islands, cycling around Stanley Park, and hiking through the forest. His adventurous spirit was also evident in his love for travel. He took many trips throughout his life and was always seeking new challenges. We find comfort in knowing that Steve is somewhere planning his next big adventure. We will all miss his tremendous wit.
Steve is survived by his loving wife, Chris; children, Brandon and Brooke (Mike); father, Eldred (Pat); brothers, Dave (Lana) and Brian (Deb); and many beloved nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his mother, Lois, and his brother, Mark.
Although Steve requested no formal service, Chris and the kids welcome friends and family to visit for a cup of his favourite green tea and a walk along the beach in his memory.
In lieu of flowers, Steve would encourage everyone to doggedly support a family member, friend, or community member in need.
Steve, we are heartbroken, and you will be forever missed.
