Owen Bechtol

Owen Bradford Bechtol, Kalamazoo, MI passed away, surrounded by his family, at Bronson Hospital on Wednesday, November 19, 2014 at the age of 68. Owen was born in Toledo, Ohio on October 23, 1946, the son of the late Harold and Evelyn (Bradford) Bechtol. He was employed as an Optician. He enjoyed going to air shows and spending time at the Kalamazoo Air Museum, where he was a lifetime member. He also enjoyed photography, music and was an avid Detroit Tigers Fan. He was a lover of all sports and always attended his grandchildren's sporting events. He is survived by his loving wife of 48 years, Susan (Hokanson) Bechtol; two children, Eric (Nicki) Bechtol and Jennifer (Larry) Hunter; five grandchildren, Gavin, Nathan, Hannah, Caden and Chase; two brothers, Paul (Carol) Bechtol and Mark (Kathy) Bechtol; many nieces and nephews; his mother-in-law, Neva Hokanson; two sisters-in-law and one brother-in-law, Marianne Bechtol, Carol (Gary) Martin and Chad Hokanson. He was preceded in death by one brother, David Bechtol; and his father-in-law, Dee Hokanson. Cremation has taken place and a celebration of Owen's life will be held from 48 PM on Monday, November 24, 2014 at the Langeland Family Funeral Homes, Westside Chapel, 3926 South 9th St., Kalamazoo, MI 49009. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the American Diabetes Association.