David Broadhurst posted a condolence

Tuesday, June 30, 2026

I met Bessie while working with her sons Jonathan and Peter at SFU. Her combination of sharp intellect and warm humanity made a strong impression on me, as did her recollections of Nelson Mandela at Wits. Jon and I wrote several papers together and I recall him saying that when sharing an office with Bessie he was somewhat in awe of her powers of concentration and commitment to do "good work", in both senses of that phrase. I send my best wishes to the the extended family of Bessie and David, in Canada and Australia. David Broadhurst

Pamela Jones posted a condolence

Thursday, June 25, 2026

So sorry just found out your Mum had passed Sarah. She had a long wonderful life. Bessie accomplished so much in a lifetime as did your Dad . My deepest heartfelt condolences to you Sarah and your families. Bessie was an intelligent, extremely kind , compassionate lady. I had the opportunity to know her as caregiver for 10 years. We had laughs, walks through the yard looking at beautiful spring flowers, singing songs together, to sitting outside talking . Bessie amazing at reciting her book of poems she had in memory. An original lady I will cherish the memories always of Bessie and her smile in my heart. ❤️ RIP Bessie your with your darling David now . Pamela Jones Pamela Jones

Janet Parker Vaughan posted a condolence

Monday, June 22, 2026

Dear Sarah, This to say that Suzy and I remember your mother and father and the care and kind hospitality they extended to us in our early years in London. We remember them, as we do you and Jonathan and Peter, as people of great accomplishment.. Your mother's dynamic energy and searching intelligence, have made a positive difference to many lives. Thinking of you with love at this sad time, Janet Parker Vaughan and Suzy Parker

Arlene Gladstone posted a condolence

Saturday, June 20, 2026

I moved to London , ON in 1967 and left London in 1970 My son was born in that period and the warm welcome from Bessie and David to us- a young family- is something I will always remember.She was a model of hospitality and care. We kept in touch whenever Bessie would visit Vancouver. It was always a pleasure to know such a warm, dynamic and intelligent woman. To Sarah and the family, my heartfelt sympathy. Kind regards Arlene Gladstone

Elaine Apel uploaded photo(s)

Tuesday, June 16, 2026

We thoroughly enjoyed every moment we spent with you, Bessie. You were always so positive and cheerful. You were a great teacher - you shared so much of yourself with others. We enjoyed lots of social gatherings and celebrations with your family. We have many fond memories of our annual Protea Club braais, at Elsie Perrin Williams Estate. You and your family were always supportive of our South African community in London. We are sending our love to your family as they grieve their significant loss. Thinking of you with love from our hearts. The Hammonds - Alex, Sallie, Elaine, Jon and Lee.

Sara Newman and Jill Cross posted a condolence

Tuesday, June 16, 2026

Bessie was so loved and admired by us. Through the years whenever there was a social occasion of my parents’ Jean and Dick Newman, we looked forward to a chance to connect with your Mum. Her insights were scintillating, her character was sparkling, and I loved hearing her talk of family. You are in our hearts and minds. Our sincere condolences to Sarah and the entire family.

J.B. Orange posted a condolence

Tuesday, June 16, 2026

I offer my sincerest condolences to Professor Borwein's family. Professor Borwein was a monumentally influential mentor to me during the early years of my academic appointment at Western University. Her grace, dignity, strong intellect, and resolute moral compass made her an ideal colleague. I am grateful to her for sharing her endless optimism and deep commitment to unraveling complicated scientific issues within contexts of focused, practical outcomes and boundless patience. The impacts of her academic contributions and generous philanthropic volunteer efforts will resonate for decades. J.B. Orange

Nancy Johnson Posted Jun 29, 2026 at 10:32 PM

Dear family - By chance I'm just learning of the loss of the indomitable Bessie. We met through Partners in Reseach. She was brilliant and an exceptional communicator for the cause and a force behind the film our company produced for Partners. She became a friend and was so generous with gifts and her time as she continued to stay in touch with my family. She is a loss to her family, to Science and her friends.

Doug Jones uploaded photo(s)

Monday, June 15, 2026

Bessie Borwein was a powerhouse in a small package. Not one to “suffer fools”. A friend to many whom she knew not only them but their family and life circumstances. I was privileged to count her as a friend, a colleague at Western and as a Member of the Partners in Research London and National Board. I have included a photo of the dual birthday party I hosted at my home for David and Bessie on March 23, 2014 including PIR Board and friends. My Sincere condolences to her family. Doug Jones, Professor Emeritus, Departments of Physiology & Pharmacology and Medicine.

Donna Blackwood posted a condolence

Monday, June 15, 2026

My deepest condolences to Bessies' family. Was able to help with her care in the last few years. Donna Blackwood

Clark Leith posted a condolence

Monday, June 15, 2026

Bessie's dedication to her research in the face of the unethical break-in by animal rights activist was respected by Western's academic community.

Oliver Hurtter posted a condolence

Sunday, June 14, 2026

My deepest sympathy to you and your family. May Bessie Borwein rest in eternal peace.

Lori Smith posted a condolence

Sunday, June 14, 2026

Very sorry to hear the lose of a beautiful talented lady. Accept my condolences to the entire family. Lori Smith

Vivian McAlister posted a condolence

Saturday, June 13, 2026

Condolences to you Sara, and to Bessie's grandchildren and greatgrandchildren. Bessie and David were Bridge partners of Gabriella. They were frequent attenders at the history of medicine meetings. Bessie would often look for support for her causes in medical research. We miss them but we are grateful to have known them. Vivian and Christiane McAlister

Barrie Evans posted a condolence

Saturday, June 13, 2026

I have fond memories of Bessie from her time as Board member at Madame Vanier Children’s Services (now Vanier Children’s Mental Wellness). I was a recently appointed Executive Director and I greatly benefitted from her wisdom, sound judgment and supportive advice. But I remember her best as a volunteer mentor for my daughter who was doing a Grade 13 project in biology at Central Secondary School. Bessie guided her through the scientific and ethical issues regarding the use of animals in medical research culminating in a presentation that my daughter made as a youth delegate to a conference on these issues. My daughter went on to do a double major in biology and English at University, followed by a law degree. I am sure that Bessie contributed to her critical thinking ability, her understanding of the importance of evidence in formulating arguments and her ability to take a balanced perspective on important ethical issues. Thank you, Bessie.

Mary Flannigan posted a condolence

Saturday, June 13, 2026

I am so very sorry to read of your loss. I grew up on Brough Street across from your family, and went to school with Peter. I always remember how kind your mother was to my parents. Mary Chalmers Flannigan

Judy Ball posted a condolence

Friday, June 12, 2026

Bessie was a very special person, both incredibly intelligent and also down to earth. Her home, with David was a welcoming place and we were so fortunate to have enjoyed many evenings there, with very stimulating conversations. May her memory be for a blessing. Fred and Judy Ball

The family of Bessie Borwein uploaded a photo

Thursday, June 11, 2026

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