Louise (Lou) Bechtler, 93, formerly of Mansfield, passed away suddenly but peacefully at home in San Mateo, California, on August 15, 2024, with family by her side.
Known as “Dolli” when she was young, Lou was born on April 18, 1931, to Peter and Susie (Galat) Krstich in Akron, the youngest of their eight children. After graduating from Kent State University in 1952, Lou traveled extensively throughout the United States working in market research for Procter & Gamble. She married her beloved husband Al Bechtler in 1956; they raised their three children in Lexington and celebrated 54 years together before Al’s death in 2010. Lou taught fourth and fifth grade in Bellville from 1972 to 1992, endearing herself to hundreds of students and their families. She spent the last ten years enjoying life in California close to her family.
Lou was a longtime member of the Apostolic Christian Church in Mansfield, and her faith and trust in God were sources of strength her entire life. She was known for her joyous and loving spirit, her kindness, her upbeat outlook, and her bright sense of humor throughout her long life, making friends and beautiful memories everywhere she went.
Lou is survived by her daughter Laurie Bechtler, her son Mark Bechtler and his family, and her daughter Lisa MacMillen and son-in-law Don MacMillen, with their children Hayley (and Seth), Alec (and Andrés), Iris, and Andrew.
The family will hold a private celebration of Lou’s life at a later date, with burial at Mansfield Cemetery.
Funeral Home: Sneider & Sullivan & O’Connell’s Funeral Home and Cremation Service, San Mateo CA
Website: https://cypresslawn.com/sneider-sullivan-oconnells-funeral-home-and-cremation-service/