Elizabeth I. "Bessie" Leif was born on October 5, 1919 to Jacob and Josephine (Tashash) Facas in Paterson, New Jersey and passed away in Seward, Nebraska at the age of 96 years, 9 months, and 22 days. Bessie graduated from St. Bonaventure High School in Paterson, NJ; in June of 1938. She was united in marriage to William "Paul" Leif on December 19, 1941, at St. Bonaventure Catholic Church in Paterson, NJ. Bessie was employed by W.W. Woolworth as a sales clerk and then became a buyer in the book department. The couple moved to Beaver Crossing in February of 1947 when Paul purchased the Farmers Co-op Locker Plant and Grocery Store. Paul took up flying and had several planes, so Bessie took in-flight training course. She learned to fly and land the plane in case of an emergency and to assist in cross-country trip. The longest trip, Paul and Bessie made, was to see Nebraska play in the Orange Bowl on January 1, 1973. Bessie was active in the community through the American Legion Auxiliary, Sacred Heart Catholic Church and Altar Society, W.H.O. Bridge Club, Chamber of Commerce and she volunteered at the Veteran's Hospital in Lincoln. Bessie is survived by her three sons and daughters-in-law, Bob and Elizabeth Leif, Denver, CO, Don and Michele Leif, Lincoln, Gerard "Jere" and Janet Leif, Beaver Crossing, Cheryl Leif, Lincoln; 9 grandchildren, 22 great grandchildren, 1 great great grandson. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Paul Leif; son, Bill Leif; a grandson, Joel Leif; 3 brothers, Pete, William and Sam Facas; and 2 sisters, Marian Facas and Eva Rowek.