Robert "Bob" Bechtol's Obituary
It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Robert (Bob) Edward Bechtol, age 78. He died on April 2, 2026, from surgery complications at Haven Hospice Care - Gainesville. Bob was a resident of Gainesville, Florida for 48 years prior to his passing.
Bob was born April 19, 1947, in Cincinnati, OH, the only son of the late Claretta (Clara) and Howard Bechtol. At a young age he moved with his mother to Eustis, FL where he met many lifelong friends and his wife (and high school sweetheart) of 47 years.
He touched many lives with his wisdom and humor. He was an Air Traffic Controller for 37 years, learning his profession while serving his country in the United States Air Force. He was a member of the American Legion, and an avid fisherman, hunter, storyteller, bourbon drinker, and collector of firearms.
Bob was preceded in death by parents, and by his wife, Jacqulyn (Jackie) Rae Bechtol.
He is survived by his daughter and son-in-law, Lori and Pete Skibitski of Brookhaven, GA and son and daughter-in-law, Bill and Kristi Bechtol of Gainesville, FL, as well as five grandchildren, Carolyn, John, Luke, Matthew and Julia, along with many other family and friends who will sadly miss him.
A memorial service celebrating Bob’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 2, 2026, at Williams-Thomas Funeral Home West, 823 NW 143rd Street, Newberry, FL 32669, with the family receiving friends and family for visitation one hour prior at 10:00 a.m. Immediately following, there will be a burial service, with military honors, at Forest Meadows Cemetery, 4100 NW 39th Avenue
Gainesville, Florida 32606.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Bob’s name to the American Legion Veteran’s and Children Foundation https://mylegion.org/personifyebusiness/Give/Donate-Online/Donate-Now?CashProductId=134419
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