David H. Bechler

David Bechler age 78, was called home to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on March 6, 2025. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend, known for his deep faith, humility, kind heart and unwavering love for his family. First-born son of Mary and Herman Bechler, David graduated from Cody High School in Detroit and received his bachelor’s degree in Geology from Wayne State University.
Dave shared 51 wonderful years of marriage with his beloved wife, Susan. Together they built a life rooted in faith and devotion to one another, filled with years of joy and unforgettable adventures. His unwavering commitment to Susan, their children, and grandchildren shone through in everything he did, bringing him joy and immense pride.
Dave’s faith was central to his life. His love for Christ shaped his actions and his relationships with others – displaying humility, gentleness, and a loving spirit. He enjoyed studying the Bible, especially the book of Revelation and topics related to heaven. His trip to the Holy Land in 2012 was a dream fulfilled and helped grow his faith, as did his late-in-life discovery of the 80’s/90’s Christian rock band Petra.
David worked for over 39 years as a geologist for the State of Michigan, primarily in the Office of Gas, Oil, and Minerals. He found great pleasure in stewarding the State’s resources.
He enjoyed family vacations, particularly to Colorado and Wyoming. These extended road trips always brought unexpected surprises & adventures that could be talked about for years. We all learned that the car-top carrier needs to be closed before getting on the highway and that Fall River Road in the Rockies should not be traveled in a snowstorm.
Dave was also an accomplished woodworker. He and Susan enjoyed participating in the Holt Arts & Crafts Show for over 20 years. His greater talent, however, may have been baking (and eating) his own delicious homemade pumpkin pies.
David is survived by his loving wife, Susan; son, Matthew (Nadia) Bechler of West Lafayette, IN; daughter, Courtney (Jeffrey) Stoel of Lansing, MI; and his grandchildren, Izabel, Tessa, Rosalee, Benjamin, and Annalise.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Herman and Mary Bechler, and his brothers, Jonathan Bechler and Paul Bechler.
A celebration of David’s life will be held at 12:00pm on Friday, March 14, 2025, at South Church, 5250 Cornerstone Dr., Lansing, MI 48917. Interment will take place in Maple Grove Cemetery, Mason, MI. Visitation will be 3:00-7:00 p.m., Thursday, March 13, at the Estes-Leadley Holt/Delhi Chapel, 2121 Cedar St., Holt, MI 48842, and also for one hour prior to the funeral on Friday at the church.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations may be made to: Ethnos 360 (designated for Gordon and Pat Bennett) or South Church (Lansing, MI) or Trinity Church (Lansing, MI).

David’s family would like to express their deepest gratitude for the love and support they have received during this time.