Nancy Ruth Bechtel, age 88, passed away on August 12, 2024. She was born on March 30, 1936, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to Ralph and Agnes Gillo. Nancy was an active and spirited young woman who played softball, golf, and basketball during her school years. She also participated in the high school marching band, proudly playing the tuba. Nancy went on to serve as an administrative professional for 10 years at the United States Army Tank Automotive Command (TACOM).
Beyond her career, she was an adventurer at heart, with a passion for golf, camping, and traveling. Her travels took her to beautiful destinations like Hawaii, Mexico, Egypt, New Orleans, and various other locations across the United States. A lifelong fan of the Detroit Lions, Nancy worked as a security guard at their games for many seasons, a job she took great pride in. Her love for the team was infectious, and she cherished the community she found in supporting them.
Nancy's greatest joy in life was spending time with her children and extended family, creating memories that will last forever. She also found thrill in snow skiing, motorcycling, and rollerblading, always staying active and young at heart. In honor of Nancy’s deep love for the Lions, her family kindly requests that all attendees wear their Lions gear to the visitation and funeral service. It would undoubtedly make Nancy proud. Nancy's spirit of adventure, love for family, and unwavering support for her favorite team will be deeply missed by all who knew her.
Nancy was the loving wife of John C. Bechtel. The devoted mother of Lori (Jim) Haralson and Brian Kurtz. Cherished grandmother of Ali (Jon) Rautio, Grant Haralson, Dan Kurtz, Erin Kurtz, Andrew (Amy) Gilbert, and Jenna (Andrew) Arter and the beloved great grandmother of nine.
Visitation for Nancy will take place on Thursday, August 15, 2024 from 4:00 to 8:00 pm at Resurrection Funeral Home, 40800 Hayes Road in Clinton Township. A funeral service will be held on Friday August 16, 2024 10:00 am at the funeral home.
