Corporal Mason Nathaniel Bess
February 25th, 1999 - November 21, 2024
"God broke our hearts to prove to us He only takes the best. "
Obituary of Corporal Mason Nathaniel Bess
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Cpl Mason Nathaniel Bess on November 21, 2024. Mason's life was defined by love, family, friends, and his country.
Mason was born February 25th, 1999, in Newfane, NY. From a very young age Mason's dream was to be a United States Marine. In high school he enrolled into the Poolee Recruit Program under SSGT David McDonald. Mason shipped off to Parris Island, SC shortly after high school (Hornell) graduation.
He became a Marine on February 2nd, 2018. From there Mason spent time in numerous places and was deployed. During his time in The Corps, Mason was also a Legal Services Specialist and was awarded The Navy And Marine Corps Achievement Medal (Quantico, VA) for his exemplary and highly professional manner as the Primary Action (NCO) Officer for case management, resulting in 8 General Courts-Martial, 64 Courts-Martial, and 25 Boards of Inquiry; all were done with flawless execution and tenacity. In addition, he was awarded 4 more Medals and 3 Letters of Appreciation. He was involved in The Wounded Warriors Project and also volunteered his time with The Special Olympics. Mason was Honorably Discharged in July 2021, but was to remain under the obligation of Reserves until December 5th, 2024.
Mason was employed at the Alexandria, VA PD as Security prior to coming back to Lockport, NY in September 2024. During his free time he loved watching episodes of Sponge Bob, Dragon Ball Z, Rick and Morty, and The Walking Dead. He was a fan of the NY Yankees and the UFC. He enjoyed cooking, reading, and spending time with his cat Mystic. Mason was an advocate against animal abuse, domestic violence, and child abuse. He loved with his whole heart and was a special light in this world.
Mason is survived by his beloved father Kenneth Bess Jr. and mother Gina DiClemente. Cherished brother of Kenneth Bess III, Taylor Bess and Bella Bess. Cherished grandson of Kenneth (Juanita) Bess, Evelyn White and the late Antonio and Sherry DiClemente. Dear nephew of Christina DiClemente, Angiolina DiClemente, Krista (Kenneth) Chaplin and Connie Bess. Also survived by cousins.
Friends may call Thursday December 5, 2024 from 4-8 at the Taylor & Reynolds Funeral Home, 70 Niagara Street , Lockport NY. Burial will be Friday December 6, 2024 at 1:00 pm in the Western New York Veterans Cemetery with full Military Honors.
Very proud of this young man! He is one of my Family members cousins Condolences to my cousin Ken and Juanita Bess And also to Kenneth Bess lll All my love and prayers for each and everyone of you🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻♥️♥️
So sorry to hear of Masons passing . Condolences and love to your family.
Sweet Mason…Fly high darling. You served and protected us all. A forever bond as a USMC mother.
Ken and family sooo sorry to hear about your grandson. Grandchildren are always the best. Keep remembering the best allowing you and your family to heal with the love he left you. If I were there I would give you a big hug. Share my huggs with Marilyn. Love, Trish and family.
Gina, Kenny, Taylor, and Ken Sr., you are all in our thoughts and prayers. Ken, we are Gina’s cousin Denise (and husband Chris), Uncle Dick, and Aunt Linda. I remember Mason as a little kid, and wish I would have gotten to know him as an adult. My husband is also a Veteran, and we are all proud of Mason’s service. I know his Great Grandpa Heal and Nana would be too, and of course Aunt Sherry & Uncle Tony. Sending all our love. Gina, I am so sorry that we couldn’t come tonight to pay our respects. We love you Hon. Love, Denise & Chris, Uncle Dick & Aunt Linda
Gina, Kenny, Taylor, & Ken, you are in our (Uncle Dick, Aunt Linda, Chris & I ) thoughts and prayers. I remember Mason as an adorable kid, and wish I would have known him as an adult. We are proud of his service, and I know that Great Grandpa & Nana, Aunt Sherry, & Uncle Tony would be so proud of him. I hope it is comforting to know that they are welcoming him in Heaven with open arms. Gina, Kenny, and Taylor, we are sending you love. Love, Denise & Chris, Uncle Dick & Aunt Linda
I had the honor of serving alongside Mason in the Marine Corps. We met during our time at Parris Island in 2017 and stayed connected afterward. He was one of the realest, most loyal people I’ve ever known—sharp, protective, and the kind of guy who carried more than he ever let on.
Mason made a lasting impact on my life. He helped shape the man I’ve become, I loved him as my brother and I’ll carry his memory for the rest of my life.
To his family: I’m so sorry for your loss. Mason was deeply loved—more than he probably ever knew. I hope he’s finally at peace.
– Andre Espinoza