On September 20, 2018, Richard Laurence Bechtel of Edmonton, passed away at the age of 87 years.
He is remembered by Thelma, his loving wife of 61 years–semicolon– sons, Brian (Joan), David (Angela), and Robert (Shirley)–semicolon– granddaughter, Kaitlin Graham–semicolon– grandsons, Benjamin, Daniel, and Andrew Bechtel–semicolon– loving sister, Bernice Thompson of Regina–semicolon– as well as many nephews and nieces.
Richard is predeceased by his brothers, Bernard and James Bechtel–semicolon– and sister, Theresa Wettlaufer.
Dad was a man of broad interests and talents, but it was as an artist that Richard Bechtel was a gifted man. In his youth, he was a sign painter–semicolon– lettering on office doors, signs, airplanes, water towers, and even on the sides of buildings. He then turned to neon and his distinctive design work was once in evidence all over the city. Long-time residents of Edmonton may remember the Hugh McColl’s South Park sign on Whyte Avenue which was recently designated as a Municipal Historic Resource and we see his style in the Crystal Glass logo.
It was in the medium of wood that Dad became a master. His work covered many subjects and Edmontonians will see his work in some of the horses and the rounding boards of the Fort Edmonton Park carousel. With much help from his good friends at the Southeast Edmonton Seniors Association (SEESA), Dad carved the carousel’s R.C.M.P. horse which lead the group to the carving of the R.C.M.P. Memorial Horse in the lobby at “K” Division Headquarters. He called himself a “woodcarver”, but he was actually a great sculptor.
Vicki Van Vliet Vaitkunas says
As the former Executive Director of Fort Edmonton Foundation I remember Richard well. The SEESA group was very committed and particularly Richard. The Foundration really appreciated his talent, dedication and his positive attitude. May your many happy memories sustain you during this time of sorrow.
Vicki
Aubrey Villett says
Richard was a great help to me when I joined the carving group at Seesa.
Joanne Burghardt says
Richard was my Godfather. I have fond memories of him especially since I moved back to Edmonton a number of years ago. He was at my wedding my with your Mom (Thelma). I worked at the RCMP after the carved horse was installed and he was gracious enough to come so I could get my picture taken with him in front of it. I always referred to him as “The Godfather” and called him such when he would call my parents. I spoke with him a month ago when he was between hospital visits and now glad I did. I will definitely miss him and he was always hold a special place in my heart. My deepest condolences on your loss, our loss. Please take good care of your Mom (Thelma). She always rolled her eyes when I would call him “The Godfather”.