Vivian H. Bechtel, of Vestal, passed away Friday, March 21, 2014, after a brief illness. She was predeceased by her parents, John and Pearl Lindenmuth; her husband of 63 years and love of her life, George “Dutch” Bechtel; her sisters, Betty LaRue, Margaret Hunter, Blanche Zerby; and brother, Paul Lindenmuth. She is survived by her children, Lee (Donna) Bechtel, Nancy (Bob) Olmstead and Carl (Rita) Bechtel; five grandchildren, Brian Bechtel, Lisa (Bryan) Zuver, Cindy (Brian) Baxter, Matthew Bechtel (Kristine) and Michael Bechtel; five great-grandchildren, Marisa, Brandon, Amanda, Bryan Christopher and Connor; sisters Verna White and Hazel Paul. Vivian is also survived by her “adopted” daughter, Sandi Reedy, several nieces, nephews, and many friends too numerous to name, especially from the Vestal Senior Citizens Center, where she served as treasurer. Vivian was a member of First Presbyterian Church, Endicott. She had been employed by several local businesses with her last being Tioga Gardens, where she loved to work with flowers. She was a member of the DAR and VFW Auxiliary (Coles-Strouse Post). Vivian enjoyed her trips to the casinos, coordinating trips for the senior citizens, genealogy, good conversations and especially spending time with family. She was well known for her keen wit, unending kindness and generosity.
Calling hours will be from 4-7 pm Tuesday at the Allen Memorial Home, 511-513 East Main Street, Endicott, and a Memorial Service will be held Wednesday at 11 am. Burial will be in the LaRue/Bechtel mausoleum and will be at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Vestal Senior Citizen Center in her memory.