Eugene W. "Gene" Bechtel

Eugene William Bechtel, Sr., lovingly known as Gene or GB, cast his final line on December 21,
2023, at the age of 70 in Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania. Born on September 30, 1953, in Halifax,
Dauphin County, to the late John Lawrence Bechtel and Iola Ellen Enders; Gene left a legacy as
legendary as his greatest catch.

With his wife, he enjoyed traveling and visiting local craft venues, historic sites, boating, dining
out, and hiking.

Gene was the ultimate angler, delighting in taking his children and grandchildren on fishing
escapades at Cayuga Lake in the Finger Lakes. When he wasn't busy reeling in the big ones, he
could be found camping, whether alone or in good company. But his talent for cracking jokes
and keeping fellow pranksters in line with his "stubby" finger was a catch in itself. A true
craftsman and woodworker, Gene's creative prowess was inherited from his parents, honed
during his farm days. Though he may have occasionally shirked his chores to chase after fish as
a young lad (and even as a grown-up), he also found solace in historical reads, carpentry, and
the thrill of hunting and fishing.

Graduating from Halifax High School in 1971, he proved that hard work and dedication were
the secret lure to success and that he could tackle any challenge. With a career spanning an
impressive 48 years, Gene served as a mentor and supervisor at a J. M. Smuckers (previously
known as Perc, Heinz, Starkist, & DelMonte).

Gene leaves behind a legacy of love, survived by his devoted wife of 28 years, Cathy (Cat) Evans,
and his children: Tishia Miller (Scott) of Carlisle, Bambi Arnold (Kevin) of Etters, Ann Stoneroad
(Thomas) of Halifax, and Eugene Jr (Jamie) of Beaver. As a stepfather, he embraced Jennifer
Conklin of Bloomsburg and Kacie Conklin of Mount Union with open arms. Gene and his
brothers, J. Charles (Bonnie, d.), Mahlon (Lorrie) of York, and Ivan (Pamela) of Halifax, laughed
and debated at many family gatherings throughout their lives. And oh, the joy of being a proud
grandfather to Riley, Eric, Sarah, Jesse, Olivia, William, AJ, Toby, and Ethan! Gene's family tree
branched out with many nieces and nephews who will forever cherish his memory.

Join us in celebrating Gene's life at joyful gatherings to be scheduled in both Bloomsburg and
Halifax. On Saturday, December 30, 2023 friends and family are invited for visitation at an open
house at his home (217 Reading Street, Bloomsburg, Pa) from 2-5 pm. Family and friends closer
to his hometown are welcome to join the family for a Celebration of Life in Halifax on Saturday,
January 13, 2024, at the church where we gathered as a family so often from 2-5 pm (Word of
Life Chapel, 27 Fellowship Drive, Halifax, Pa). Let's honor the man who knew how to cast a line
and reel in our hearts with his wit, warmth, and everlasting love. As we bid farewell, let's
remember that even in the depths of sorrow, a little laughter can be the best bait for healing.
The family requests that memorial donations may be made to Word of Life Chapel, 27
Fellowship Drive, Halifax, Pa 17032.