John G. Bechaver
John G. Bechaver, (1929 – 2008), passed away on July 31st, 2008 at his home.
John was born in Walsenburg on April 24th, 1929. He grew up primarily in the Alamo-Butte Valley coal camp north-west of town. He was a graduate of Huerfano County High School in 1946. From 1948 to 1952, he served in The United States Air Force, serving mostly in Germany during The Berlin Airlift following World War II.
He was employed by The United States Postal Service for 35 years, delivering mail to patrons throughout Walsenburg during his entire tenure.
He married Agnes O’Rourke on October 26th, 1957, and the couple happily celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary last autumn, with many family and friends in attendance.
He loved the outdoors- hiking and fishing. He loved his garden, flowers, and especially his birds, the multitude of species he fed and could identify one and all on sight, from a great distance. He was a collector of practically anything that can be collected, and an expert historian about everything he experienced. His memories of growing up in this area was an invaluable resource to everyone who knew him, and he enjoyed sharing his knowledge and experiences, to the benefit of The Historical Society and The Mining Museum. His artistic talents remain unsurpassed, whether it be in woodworking, or painting, or drawing. He also loved to share his talent of music with others, belonging to two choirs at Saint Mary Catholic Church — The Men’s Choir and The Spanish Music Choir. His gift of music will be missed by all. In addition, he loved a good polka (Who doesn’t!), and he belonged to several bands in the area over the years, most notably and recently The Good Ol’ Jazz Band! He was a great baseball player, bowler, and horseshoe pitcher.
He was preceded in death by his parents, John Bechaver and Frances (Dlugopolski) Bechaver.
He is survived by his loving wife Agnes, his four children Theresa (Mark) Roy, Phyllis (Carl) Martinez, Lorrie Bechaver, and Will Bechaver; his brother Edward (Diana) Bechaver; grandchildren Rebecca Carter, Ryan Carter, Mark E. Roy, Jonathan Roy, Mackenzie Martinez, and Michael Martinez.
The Knights Of Columbus, of which he was a member, were present at The Rosary and Funeral Mass held at Saint Mary Church. He was interred at North Saint Mary Cemetery with a full Air Force Military Honor Guard.
