Roland J. Bechtel age 85 of Clinton, passed away Wednesday, March 6, 2024, at home. In following Roland’s wishes cremation rite will be accorded. A graveside ceremony will be held on April 6, 2024, at Clinton Lawn Cemetery at 2 P.M. and the Celebration of Life will be held on April 7, 2024, at 2 P.M. at Mr. Richard Bechtel’s home: 451 Mill Ridge RD., Clinton, IA. The Pape Funeral Home is assisting the family.
Roland was born in Boone County, Iowa on February 8, 1939, the son of Lovell and Ethel (Sailor) Bechtel. His education was complete by 8th grade and he did obtain his GED. Roland entered the U.S. Navy at 17. Roland served for a total of 7 years overall. At the time of active discharge, he was on board the USS Cambria APA-36 and his rank was an FN (E-3). Roland was very proud of his time in service and loved sharing his stories about serving our country and was an active VFW member. Military funeral honors will be rendered. Roland married Angela R. Telford on June 15, 1968 in Clinton; they were married for 55 years. It has been our honor, as his children, to care for him at his home over the last few years. Our father truly loved being a PaPouli! He was a devoted father and husband.
Roland owned and operated, with his wife, River City screen printing for over 20 years. Roland was a proud Union man for over 35 years. Roland belonged to the Plumber/Pipefitter/Sheetmetal Local 196 out of Amarillo, TX. His time spent in the Union allowed him to work all over the country, on many jobs his wife and children joined him. He later owned and operated The Inn, once located off Bluff in Clinton. Roland owned many rental properties over the years and up to his passing. And the many other adventures his wife involved him with his knowledge or not.
Roland was passionate about home improvement and never without fail, a home project taking place, even up to his later years and last months in life. He enjoyed shooting pool, playing poker and especial pinochle with his wife. He also enjoyed fishing at many “secret” spots in the area with his wife and children. Roland was an adamant animal lover and much like his wife, he enjoyed mornings with his beloved brood of dogs feeding them treats and watching them play. Roland was not a religious man, but a spiritual man and swore by the Old Farmer’s Almanac! Roland opened his door to many family, friends, and foes over his life; Roland was a very generous man.
Roland is survived by his daughter, Margaret (Scott) Zimmerman of Maquoketa, son Kenny Bechtel of Clinton, two grandchildren Elijah and Angelina, a brother Melvin Bechtel of Stratford, IA, brother-in-law Thomas (Paula) Telford, and many nieces and nephews. Roland was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Angela. His mother and father, stepmother Jessie, and many brothers and sisters. Online condolences may be left at www.papefh.com. Cards and flowers may be sent to Kenny Bechtel and Margaret Zimmerman: 2721 No. 2nd St. Clinton, IA 52732.
Angela R. Bechtel age 79 of Clinton, passed away Thursday, February 22, 2024, at The Alverno. In following Angela’s wishes cremation rites will be accorded. A graveside ceremony will be held on April 6, 2024, at Clinton Lawn Cemetery at 2 P.M. and the Celebration of Life will be held on April 7, 2024, at 2 P.M. at Mr. Richard Bechtel’s home: 451 Mill Ridge RD., Clinton, IA. The Pape Funeral Home is assisting the family.
Angela was born in Clinton on February 13, 1945, the daughter of Lee and Margaret (Lewis) Telford. She graduated from Clinton High School in 1963 and attended the University of Iowa to study music. Angela married Roland J. Bechtel on June 15, 1968 in Clinton; they were married for 55 years. She was a member of Assumption Greek Orthodox Church in East Moline. Our mother took pride in her Greek heritage. Angela loved spending time with her family over the years and loved all of us unconditionally. Our mother ensured we kept our family traditions that her mother passed on to her. It has been our honor, as her children, to care for her at her home over the last few years. Our mother truly loved being a YiaYia!
Angela owned and operated, with her husband, River City Screen Printing for over 20 years. She worked as a senior tax adviser with H & R Block for 25 years and was a licensed realtor. Angela ran for Miss Clinton County Pageant in 1965 and was runner-up, singing Summertime for the win! She pursued a seat on the Clinton City Council and was a prevalent volunteer in the Democratic Party. Angela was largely responsible for organizing Clinton’s home rule charter in 1987. She was also a devoted mother and wife.
Angela was musically talented; her voice was magical and healing. She sang for many years with the local Handel’s The Messiah every year at Christmas. Angela loved horses and loved to share her stories about her 2 horses, Big John and Charlie, along with both of her German Shepherds with the same namesake (Lady). Her other passions over the years included crocheting, cooking Greek food, and playing Mario Brothers on Nintendo. She especially loved gardening and growing tomatoes, she truly had a green thumb. She also decorated her home with plants of all kinds.
Angela is survived by her husband Roland, a daughter, Margaret (Scott) Zimmerman of Maquoketa; a son, Kenny Bechtel of Clinton; 2 grandchildren, Elijah and Angelina; her brother, Thomas (Paula) Telford of Clinton; 2 nephews, and many cousins. She was preceded in death by her parents and her stepfather, Donald Winoski. Online condolences may be left at www.papwefh.com. Cards and flowers may be sent to Kenny Bechtel and Margaret Zimmerman: 2721 No. 2nd St. Clinton, IA 52732.
