Shirley M. (Bohn) Bechtol

Shirley M. Bechtol, formerly of Millheim, passed from this life on Sunday, January 13th at Centre Crest Nursing Home in Bellefonte.  She was 88.  Born in Millheim on March 23, 1930, Shirley was a daughter of the late Harry A. and Martha A. (Smith) Bohn.  On January 11, 1948 she married Carl E. “Hon” Bechtol who preceded her in death on March 28, 2003.

Shirley is survived by two daughters, Lynette K. Bechtol of Millheim and Tawni L. Guralnick (Miles) of Boalsburg; one son, Kerry C. Bechtol (Nancy) of Hopewell Junction, NY; four grandchildren, Kristi L. Brinker (Joel), Jodi A. Butler (Scott), and Laura and Alex Guralnick; eight great grandchildren, KayLeigh and Logan Jones, Aidan and Ellie Brinker, Jadyn and Madysn Butler, Tessa English and Kai Guralnick.  Also surviving is Shirley’s beloved feline companion, PJ.  Shirley was preceded in death by siblings, Hazel Fiedler, Phyllis Musser, Carl Bohn and Guy Bohn.

Shirley worked at the former Watson five and dime store in Millheim.  She was best known for working alongside her husband at the Hosterman and Stover Hardware in Millheim.  Her family affectionately called her the “Hosterman and Stover Toy Lady”.  She was a member of St. John’s Lutheran Church in Millheim.  Shirley loved to collect Barbie dolls and paper dolls.  She was well known locally for decorating her house for the different holidays and seasons throughout the year.  Most of all, Shirley loved spending time with her family, especially babysitting her grandchildren.

A visitation for family and friends will be held on Wednesday, January 16th from 10:30 am – 11:30 am at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Millheim, followed by the funeral service at 11:30 am with Chaplain Rebecca Shuster officiating.  Shirley will be laid to rest in Fairview Cemetery in Millheim.  Contributions in memory of Shirley may be given to St. John’s Lutheran Church, Po Box 439, Millheim, PA 16854 or to Centre Crest Auxiliary, 502 E. Howard Street, Bellefonte, PA 16823.  

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