John William Bechtel

John William Bechtel

MARCH 8, 1935 – APRIL 25, 2023

     John William Bechtel, 88, of New Port Richey, FL, formerly of Martinsburg, passed away Tuesday, April 25, 2023 in Florida.

    He was born in New Enterprise, son of the late Warren B. and Elda Idessa (Snyder) Bechtel.  On August 3, 1984 he married Lucretia A. Croft in Winchester, VA.

     Surviving are his beloved wife, Lucretia of 38 years; two step-daughters: Bobbi Jo Cunningham (Dave) and Heidi Roseberry (Rich); five grandchildren; a great-grandson; five sisters-in-law: Helen Bechtel, Betty Bechtel, Nancy Sands, Linda Brumbaugh and Patty Wilson (George); two brothers-in-law: Richard Croft and Scott Croft (Tammy); many nieces and nephews; and his constant companion, Tuffy.

     John tragically lost his first wife, Joanne N. and children Connie A., Warren B. and Daryl I. in an automobile accident. He was also preceded in death by his parents; his step-father, J. Lawrence Guyer; a son, John W. Bechtel II; and four brothers: Cletus E., Donald H., H. Glen and Robert W. Bechtel.

     He was a 1952 graduate of Replogle High School, New Enterprise and was a proud veteran serving in the United States Army.  John was a member of Bare Memorial Church of God, Roaring Spring, where he served as a deacon. 

     John was an avid fisherman, who loved taking yearly trips to Canada, with his brothers and nephews.  He also enjoyed the beaches and sunshine of Florida, where John moved 17 years ago with his wife, Lucretia.

      Friends will be received from 5-7pm, Thursday, May 4, 2023, at John K. Bolger Funeral Home Inc., Martinsburg, where a funeral service will follow at 7pm, Mr. Dave Cunningham officiating.  Private interment will be held at Greenlawn Cemetery, Roaring Spring.

     In lieu of flowers memorial contributions in memory of John, may be given to the Central PA Humane Society, 1837 E. Pleasant Valley Blvd., Altoona, PA 16602.

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