Pauline Bechtold

Pauline Bechtold, 101, of Bellaire joined her loved ones in heaven on December 22, 2023. She was born October 1,1922 in Petoskey the daughter of Patrick and Bertha (Paulus) Behan.

Pauline graduated from Petoskey High School and was a dedicated employee of Bellaire State Bank for 41 years. She had a keen eye for finance and kept meticulous records. After retiring, she worked 15 summers at Bartling’s in Shanty Creek. She was an active member of St. Luke Catholic Evangelist Church, working on the finance council and participating in the Altar Society for many years. Pauline enjoyed spending time with family and friends in addition to traveling, reading, bowling, crossword puzzles, and game shows. She was a loyal fan of the Detroit Tigers, Lions, and Pistons and always knew the score. Her impeccable sense of style was unmistakable, as was her genuine love of people. Pauline took interest in every person she met and was kind beyond measure. To know her is to know love.

On April 19, 1947 in Petoskey, Pauline married Frederick Bechtold Sr. who preceded her in death. Also preceding her in death are her son Mark, her four brothers, four sisters, and her parents.

Surviving are her children Frederick W. (Kathryn Knoff) Bechtold Jr., Paula (Gary) Griffith, Mary (Tom) Lane, James (Cindy Chambers) Bechtold, 11 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.

A memorial mass will be held Friday, December 29, at 11 a.m. St. Luke Catholic Church, Bellaire with Fr. James Hayden officiating. The family will receive friends from 10 a.m. until the time of service. A time of fellowship will also follow mass in the luncheon hall. Interment will take place in the family plot at St. Francis Xavier Cemetery, Petoskey.

Memorial donations can be made to St. Luke Catholic Church and the Antrim County Baby Pantry.

Arrangements are in the care of the Bellaire Chapel of Mortensen Funeral Homes. Please sign her online guestbook at www.mortensenfuneralhomes.com