Henry Joseph Bechtel, Jr.

Henry Joseph Bechtel, Jr.

September 21, 1946 – July 26, 2026

Henry Joseph Bechtel, Jr., 79, passed away on July 26, 2026, in Ocala, Florida. He was born on September 21, 1946, the son of Henry and Katherine Bechtel.

Henry was a proud United States Air Force veteran and a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend. He shared 59 years of marriage with his loving wife, Mary Bechtel, and together they built a life centered around faith, family, and love.

Henry was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Katherine Bechtel; his sister, Mary Rehberger; and his brother, Daniel Bechtel.He is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Mary Bechtel; son, Henry Bechtel III (Monica);daughter, Millie Ehret (Mark)and son Jay Bechtel (Missy). His sisters, Viola Adams, Rosie Webber (Larry);Alice Riehle (Clifford), and his nine wonderful grandchildren: Joseph Mooneyhan (Jackeline), Henry Joseph Bechtel IV (Emma), Zackary Tate Mooneyhan, Joshua Dalton Bechtel, Franklin Douglas Mooneyhan, Alexandra Lucy Bechtel, Emily Faith Baker (Zaine), Faith Ashley Mooneyhan, and Ethan Jay Bechtel, and his many beloved nieces and nephews.

Throughout his life, Henry was very active in the Assembly of God Church, and his faith was an important part of who he was. He loved his Miami Hurricanes, enjoyed fishing, and took great pride in taking care of his beloved Pooky.

But perhaps Henry was most famous among his family for his unforgettable “Papi/Poppy Jokes.” He had a wonderful way of bringing laughter to those around him, and his familiar saying, “I feel a lot better now!” will forever bring smiles and fond memories to those who loved him.Henry will be deeply missed, but the faith, love, laughter, and memories he gave his family will remain with them always.

A graveside service will take place on Saturday, August 1, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Citra Cemetery.

Countryside Funeral Home has been entrusted with the final arrangements.

Countryside Funeral Home 9185 NE Jacksonville Road Anthony, Florida 32617 Phone: (352) 620-2006