Bessie L. Rissen

Bessie Lee Burd Rissen, 98, of Topeka, passed away Wednesday, October 11, 2023.

She was born May 26, 1925, in Osage City, Kansas, the daughter of Robert Owen and Mignonette (Rice) Burd. She graduated from Osage City High School in 1943.

Bessie married Clifford Lee Shaw on April 21, 1957. They had two children, Wendy and Tracy. He preceded her in passing 1977. After his passing, she married Earl Rissen, Sr. on June 27, 1981. She welcomed four step children into her life.

She was a homemaker and took great care of her family. Bessie also was an Avon Sales Representative for over 12 years.

The smallest things would make Bessie happy! She was a phenomenal cook and was known for her mac and cheese casserole. Bessie loved everyone.

She was a member of the Big Springs United Methodist Church, of Lecompton for 15 years.

Bessie leaves behind two daughters, Wendy L. (Lisa) Sears and Tracy L. Sipes; two step sons, Earl (Vera) Rissen, Jr. and Jerry Rissen; grandchildren, Shannon Sipes, Jason (Misty) Sears, Jamie Sears; step grandson, Derek Blanchard; great grandchildren, Dillyn Sears, Sheila Sears, Taela Cushinberry, Cora Cushinberry and Zevah Sears. She was preceded in death by her two step daughters, Charlotte and Cheryl; her parents and siblings.

Bessie will lie in state from 12:00pm-4:00pm on Sunday, October 15, 2023 at Penwell Gabel Funeral Home, 1321 SW 10th Ave., Topeka, Kansas 66604. A Funeral Ceremony will be 10:00 am., Monday, October 16, 2023 at the Big Springs United Methodist Church, 96 Hwy 40, Lecompton. The family will greet relatives and friends one hour prior to the service. Interment will follow at Mount Hope Cemetery & Funeral Chapel, in Topeka. Memorial contributions may be made to Midland Care 200 SW Frazier Circle, Topeka, KS 66606.

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