Gary Bechtal, 80, of Morrison, IL, died Thursday, May 4, 2023, at his home.
Gary was born on July 8, 1942, in Morrison, to Everett and Carlene (McKee) Bechtel. He was a 1960 graduate of Fulton High School. After high school, he attended Morrison Institute of Technology and was part of the first graduating class in 1961. Gary married Patsy A. Wiersema on May 10, 1963, in Fulton, IL. On Wednesday, May 10, they would have celebrated 60 years together. He worked at International Paper for 39 years, retiring in 1999. He loved to build and tinker, so he later went into business with his wife, remodeling and doing construction. He also had a passion for farming and never retired from it. In his free time, Gary was an amazing woodworker. He made his family and friends many of the beautiful items they will continue to cherish for years to come. Gary loved to tend to his big garden and the time he spent with his grandchildren.
Survivors include his wife, Patsy; daughters, Barbara Bechtel and Donna (Terry) Balk, both of Fulton; four grandchildren, Amanda (Jason) Dean, Michael Balk and girlfriend, Josie Frias, Steven Balk and fiancé, and Sydnee Dennison and Ashley Gaffey; three great-granddaughters, Autumn, Aubrie, and Alivia; sister, Bonnie (Doug) Bush of Morrison.
He was preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Paula Kaye Bechtel in infancy.
A private Graveside Service will be held with Pastor Dan Wiersema officiating.
There will be no Visitation.
Cremation rites have been accorded.
The Fulton Chapel of the Bosma-Renkes Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Interment will be at Fulton Township Cemetery in Fulton, IL.
A memorial has been established to MercyOne Hospice.