Besse M. Counihan, 92, of Wallingford, formerly of North Haven, died on March 2 at Masonicare in Wallingford after a long illness due to Alzheimer’s Disease. She was the wife of the late Leo Bruce Counihan. Besse was born in New Haven on Feb. 17, 1921, daughter of the late John and Louise Menasian. She had resided in North Haven before moving to Wallingford in 2002. Besse had been employed as an administrative assistant at the Geometric Tool Company of New Haven for many years prior to her retirement in 1982. She enjoyed gardening and family gatherings around the pool.

She is survived by three nephews, John M. Jurkiewicz and his wife Michele of Meriden, David M. Jurkiewicz and his wife Beverly of Hamden, and Philip G. Carolla and his wife Jean of Cheshire, as well as several great nieces and nephews.

Her funeral service was private. Burial was in Beaverdale Memorial Park. Beecher & Bennett of Hamden was in charge of arrangements.