Obituary of Richard Alan Bechtold

Hilton - Richard A. Bechtold of Hilton, NY went home to be with Jesus on February 1, 2025 at the age of 83, surrounded by the love of his family. He is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Madeline Kane Bechtold (Sharpie); his children, Cynthia (Gary) Delay, Richard (Julie) Bechtold Jr., Christopher (Anastasia) Bechtold, Jennifer (Andrew) Stewart, Timothy (Nicole) Bechtold, Melissa (Paul) McManus, and Daniel (Tiffany) Bechtold; his 29 grandchildren and 32 great-grandchildren; his siblings, Sharon (Dick) Beall, Paul (Sherry) Bechtold, Donna (Mike) Barravecchia, and Eileen (Mark) LaBrie; and his many nieces and nephews.  Richard is now reunited with his parents, Elmer and Patty Bechtold.

In his youth, Richard loved to play baseball and throughout the years often spoke of "the boys" on the team. He also enjoyed being a boy-scout. He loved the simple things of life like: watching planes land, ships going through locks, old-town diners, fishing, hunting, camping and story telling. One could always know when Richard was near as his cheerful whistling preceded him. 

Richard was employed by Eastman Kodak Company in Rochester, NY. In 1970, Richard became a follower of Jesus Christ, and was a long-time member of First Bible Baptist Church. In 1982, Richard and Madeline moved their family to Niagara Falls, Ontario Canada. After being employed at various jobs, Richard became the owner of Accu-Sort, Inc. a Canadian automotive company. He retired in 2005 and returned to Hilton, NY for the rest of his retirement. 

Richard better known as "Papa" leaves behind an incredible legacy of love and faith in his grandchildren and great grandchildren who will remember his stories for years to come. 

A private Graveside Service will be held at the convenience of the family at Parma Union Cemetery.  A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.