John J. Bechtold

John J. Bechtold, 92, of Austin Ave., died Thursday evening at his residence surrounded by his family.  Born June 12, 1933 in Alton, IL he was the son of the late John and Mary Wendle Bechtold.  He was graduate of Jerseyville Community High School, Jerseyville, IL where he earned recognition ribbons for National Service, United Nations, Good Conduct, and a Sharpshooter Medal.  

A veteran of the US Airforce he served from 1953-1957 obtaining the rank of Airman First Class.

John married his wife Elaine (Baran) of 64 years on June 10, 1961 at Quarryville Church.

Prior to moving to New York, John worked as a television repairman at Elber Appliance in Alton, IL.

A Saugerties resident for many years, John was employed at IBM as a Senior Programmer until his retirement in 1987.  He was a member of the Quarter Century Club with IBM. He was a lifetime member of St. Joseph's RC Church, where he was lector for 20 years. John was also a member Knights of Columbus and assisted many seniors with their tax preparation by volunteering with the Ulster County Office of the Aging.   In his spare time, he enjoyed being an amateur radio operator call sign WA2PNV and numerous daily crossword puzzles.

Survivors include his wife, Elaine, a son, Matthew and his wife Beth Bechtold of Saugerties; daughter, Monica and her husband Ron Turcotte of Londonderry, NH; three grandsons, Brendan, Douglas (Ashley) and Louis; several nieces and nephews.

Besides his parents, John is predeceased by his siblings, Edward, Leo, Laverne, Ida (Edith), Eleanor, Helen, Catherine Marie.

The family would like to thank Dr. Kyaw and the staff at Bridge St Medical, their support over the last several years has been invaluable. The aides who have helped us as a family keep John at home. Hudson Valley Hospice for their support during John’s final days. And the countless friends who have supported the family over the years.

His Funeral Procession will form 9:45 AM Tuesday at the Seamon-Wilsey Funeral Home, Inc.  Cor. of John & Lafayette Sts., Saugerties thence to St. Joseph's RC Church where at 10:30 AM a Mass of Christian Burial will be offered.  Burial will follow in St. Mary's Cemetery.   Friends will be received on Monday from 3:00-5:00 PM.   

Family suggestions donations in his memory be made to St Mary’s/Joseph Church 36 Cedar St, Saugerties, NY 12477, People’s Place 17 St James St, Kingston, NY 12401 and Hudson Valley Hospice 153 Sawkill Rd, Kingston, NY 12401. 

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