John "Jack" Henry Bechtol

John “Jack” Henry Bechtol, age 81, of Battle Creek, Michigan, went peacefully to be with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ surrounded by his loving family, on Thursday, April 6, 2023.

Jack was born in Delton, Michigan on April 14, 1941, to the late Harry and Nellie (Hall) Bechtol. He graduated from Pennfield High School in 1959. He served in the Michigan Air National Guard for seven years, and then worked for the United States Government at the Battle Creek Federal Center from 1961 – 1997. On May 23, 1965, he was united in marriage with the love of his life Kathleen “Kay” (Denning) Bechtol. In 1967, John accepted Jesus as his Lord and Savior and served him faithfully all his life. He attended Calvary Chapel of Battle Creek. He loved his dog Dotty, his wife and family even more, and his Lord the most. He was an avid shooter, enjoyed archery and enjoyed running where he logged 10,000 miles. He enjoyed woodworking and making things for his grandchildren. He loved taking care of his lawn and garden.

He is survived by his loving wife Kay; their children, Matt (Tammy) Bechtol, Cindy (Jim) Augustine; grandchildren, John Bechtol, Becky (Steve) Phelps, Anna, Andrew, Abigail, Alexander, Allison, and Azariah Augustine; great-grandchildren, Wyatt, Ivy-June, Beau, Tanner, and Tessa Phelps; brothers, Leroy and Frank Bechtol; and dear daughter, Renee Creek.

He has been preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Dareda Benton and his brother, Harry (Bud) Bechtol; and his great-granddaughter, Paisley-Ann Phelps.

Friends may visit with the family from 5-7 p.m. on Monday, April 10, 2023, at Kempf Family Funeral and Cremation Services, 2838 Capital Ave SW, Battle Creek, MI 49015, where the funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, April 11, 2023. Pastor Rick Gorham will officiate the service and interment will follow in Floral Lawn Memorial Gardens. Please visit https://www.kempffuneralhome.com to view the online obituary, sign the guest book, and leave messages for the family. Memorial contributions may be given to Alternatives of Battle Creek. For assistance with memorials, please visit the funeral home or go to https://www.alternativescc.org/ .