Charles “Chuck” Willis Bechtold, 87 of Paducah passed away on Sunday, February 2, 2025 at the Ray & Kay Eckstein Hospice Center in Paducah. He was born on November 8, 1937 to the late Charles Augusta and Hazel Jane Bechtold. He was a member of Bellview Baptist Church in Paducah. His life’s journey was marked by the service and love he shared with his family and friends.
He proudly served his country as a member of the United States Air Force for four years. He was an airplane mechanic and the recipient of numerous maintenance man of the month awards. He was stationed for his tour of duty primarily in Japan. He was the designated baseball pitcher for his overseas unit and won many championships and awards. He was also an avid golfer and won numerous golf tournaments. He was a member of Paxton Park Golf Club and was notorious for his annual fish fries for volunteer club members. He was also an avid gardener, raising vegetables for years and giving them to his friends and neighbors. He worked as a supervisor for Canteen of Paducah for several years. He ultimately retired as a supervisor from General Tire in Mayfield, KY.
He is survived by his wife, Betty Kettler Bechtold of Paducah; his two sons, Charles L. (Polly) Bechtold and Michael W. Bechtold both of Paducah; his daughter Kathy L. Bechtold of Paducah; Betty’s children, Ricky L (Wanda) Thompson and Robyn L (Randy) Hoxworth; his two sisters, Hazel Bechtold Moyers (Leon) Spears and Velma Bechtold Walker; five grandchildren, Adam Bechtold, Cody (Michal) Bechtold, Travis Bechtold, Dean Bechtold and Ashlyn Bechtold (Michael) Love; Betty’s grandchild, Carlee Hoxworth (Jimmy) Blanton; three great-grandchildren, Easton, Adalyn and Cooper along with several nieces, nephews and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his first wife of 59 years, Linda Lou Bechtold; his parents, a step-father, Grant Herzog and a sister, Sherion Herzog Faughn.
Visitation will be from 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM on Saturday, February 8, 2025 at the Milner & Orr Funeral Home of Lone Oak followed by Graveside services at 1:00 PM Saturday, February 8, 2025 at the Mount Kenton Cemetery with Rev. Bob Whitter and Rev. Larry Davidson officiating.
Expressions of sympathy may take the form of contributions to Bellview Baptist Church. 4875 Old Mayfield Road, Paducah, KY 42003 or Paxton Park Golf Course, 841 Berger Road, Paducah, KY 42001. Share a memory or leave a message for the family at www.milnerandorr.com.
