Harry James Besleme

Harry Besleme ObituaryObituary published on Legacy.com by Parker-Millard Funeral Service and Crematory - Columbia on Mar. 10, 2026.Harry James Besleme of Columbia passed away unexpectedly on March 4, 2026, at the age of 49. He is survived by his sisters Kate Besleme, Irene Lobstein (Baron), and their children. His beloved nieces and nephews are Rita, Alexa, Lukas, and James. Faith and community were central to his life and his kindness touched the hearts of many. He was a loving son, brother, uncle, and partner to Emily Malicoat.Harry was born in Farmington, Missouri, where he attended elementary school at St. Paul Lutheran School. He had fond memories of the teachers, students, and the Farmington community that helped nurture the caring and gentle soul that he was. He later moved with his family to Columbia, where he graduated from Rock Bridge High School.He found strength and joy in fellowship with others. He was a devoted member of the Trinity Lutheran Church, a long-time member of the church's bell choir, and an active participant with the Wittenberg Door Campus Ministries. He was an avid student of foreign languages and discovered a love for the German language and culture. He became a proficient German speaker following two high school student exchange trips to Germany.He worked for over 20 years in food service at the University of Missouri in Columbia and was dedicated to those he worked with and to those he served.As an athlete, he was recognized as Special Olympics Outstanding Athlete of the Year for Central Missouri in 2007. He won a gold medal in Unified Doubles bocce competition as part of Team USA at the 12th Special Olympics World Games in Shanghai, China, in 2007. He later joined Team Missouri in the volleyball competition at the Special Olympics National games in 2014.A visitation will be held for Harry's family and friends on Sunday, March 15, 2026, 3:00pm – 5:00pm, at Trinity Lutheran Church, 2201 Rollins Road in Columbia. Funeral services will be held on Monday, March 16, 2026 at 12:00pm, also at Trinity Lutheran Church. Harry will be interred beside his parents Jim and Rita Besleme at Columbia Cemetery.In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes donations in Harry's name to St. Paul Lutheran School, 608 E. Columbia, Farmington, MO 63640, or donations in Harry's name to Special Olympics. For donations to go to his team, checks should be made out of to Columbia Parks & Rec. In the memo please write "Columbia Parks & Rec Special Olympics." Send checks to: The ARC 1701 W Ash St. Columbia MO 65203.Arrangements are under the direction of Parker-Millard Funeral Service & Crematory, 12 East Ash Street, Columbia, MO 65203 (573) 449-4153. Condolences may be left online for the family at www.millardfamilychapels.comTo plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.