Robert William Bechtold

Robert William Bechtold, age 78, of Havre de Grace, MD, died on January 31, 2009 at St. Joseph Medical Center in Towson, MD. Born in Joppa, MD, he was the son of the late Robert and Nellie Bechtold. A lifelong resident of Harford County, he was a 20 year veteran of the U.S. Army, serving our country in the Korean War. During his service, he earned a Bronze Star, a Purple Heart, and the Korean Service Medal. He worked for Bata Shoe Company for 20 years as a mechanic, retiring in 1992. A member of V.F.W. Post 8126 in Havre de Grace, he was also a life member of Level Volunteer Fire Company. He coached baseball when his boys were young, and enjoyed watching the Orioles, as well as, feeding the birds and squirrels. His family said he loved his dog, Tiny.

Mr. Bechtold is survived by his wife of thirty years, Irene Amelia Thomas Bechtold of Havre de Grace, MD; son, Robert W. Bechtold of FL; daughter, Emily Collins of Clarksville, TN; step-children, Michael K. Wright of Churchville, MD; Jacqueline A. Turner of Havre de Grace, MD, Michele R. Brunet of Sawyersville, IL, Pamela G. Stottlemeyer of Pompano Beach, FL, and Joyce Ann See of Aberdeen, MD; brother, Ralph Bechtold of FL; sister, Clarissa Rose of Havre de Grace, MD; twelve grandchildren and twelve great-grandchildren. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by a son, Charles R. Bechtold.

Those who desire may contribute to the American Heart Association, P.O. Box 5216, Glen Allen, VA 23058.