Charles L. Bechdel, Sr., 88, of Beech Creek passed away Sunday, January 19, 2020 at his home.

Born January 10, 1932 in Monument, he was a son of the late Harry and Rebecca Fravel Bechdel.

Charles was a 1949 graduate of Lock Haven High School.

He served in the United States Army, being stationed in Germany during the Korean War.

On August 22, 1953 he married the love of his life, the former Marjorie Miller with whom he shared 66 years of marriage.

Charles was employed by Hammermill Paper Company for a short time before his love for animals led him to farming.

Further pursuing his love of animals, he and his wife established and owned Bechdel’s Birds and Beasts in Beech Creek.

Charles was a member of Laurel Run United Methodist Church.

He enjoyed hunting but his biggest passion was for animals.

Above all, though, he cherished the time he spent with his wife and family.

In addition to his wife, Marjorie Bechdel, he is survived by eight children: Judy Musselman of Carlisle, Charles (Suzanne) Bechdel, Jr. of Beech Creek, Jean Leitch of Lock Haven, Linda (Larry, Jr.) Rhoades of State College, Karen (Todd) Bitner of Blanchard, Deborah (Steven) Riegle of Centre Hall, Steven (Shelly) Bechdel of Beech Creek and Scott Bechdel of Lock Haven; a daughter-in-law, Tammy Bechdel of Beech Creek; two brothers, Jack and Jim Bechdel, both of Mill Hall; 26 grandchildren; and 41 great grandchildren.

Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by a son, Thomas Bechdel, Sr.; a son-in-law, Thomas Leitch, Sr.; and an infant brother, Lloyd Bechdel.

A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, January 22, 2020 at 11 a.m. at the Donald G. Walker Funeral Home, Inc., 231 High St., Flemington, Pa 17745 with Pastor Paula Smith officiating.
Friends and family will be received at the funeral home on Tuesday from 6 until 8 P.M.

Memorial contributions in Charles’ name may be made to the funeral home to assist with funeral expenses.

Online condolences may be given by visiting http://www.donaldwalkerfuneralhome.com