Obituary of Karen Bechtel

Karen S. Ream Bechtel, 71, passed away peacefully at her home following an eight year battle with cancer. Her loving family was by her side. Karen was born in Reading, PA, the daughter of the late Morris and Josephine (Hartman) Ream. She grew up in Schaefferstown graduating from Eastern Lebanon County High School. Karen married on June 14, 1969 to William T. Bechtel at Schaefferstown Lutheran Church. The couple moved to the Capital District in 1970, settling in the Glenville area in 1972. Family was the central part of Karen's life in which her world revolved. A loving wife and homemaker who enjoyed the outdoor activities with her husband and children including Sailing, hiking, skiing, both X country and downhill; among other activities. She enjoyed toll painting and needlepoint crafts. Karen was predeceased by brother, Glenn Ream, and her brother Corporal Eric Ream, who died in the line of duty during the Vietnam war. Survivors include her devoted husband, William "Bill" Bechtel of Burnt Hills and three sons, W. Todd Bechtel (Audra) of Glenville, Jonathan Bechtel of State College, PA and Ryan Bechtel (Beth) of Ballston Spa; eleven grandchildren who cherished their Nana: Tyler, Nicholas, Mikayla, Ethan, Ian and Noah Bechtel; Ava, Erik and Owen and Miles and Cole Bechtel. Surviving is her brother Brian Ream of Myerstown, PA and several nieces, nephews and cousins. A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Friday, August 14, 2015 at 3:00 PM at Glenville Funeral Home, 9 Glenridge Rd. Glenville with Jack E. Arnold presiding. Relatives and friends are cordially invited and may call prior to the service from 2-3 PM at the funeral home. Memorial contributions to Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, 450 Brookline Avenue, Boston, MA 02215-5450 are appreciated. Online condolences to the Bechtel Family www.glenvillefuneralhome.com.