Vincent L. Beechel, Sr, 95, of Newtown, died May 5, at his home, surrounded by his family. His loved ones say he is reunited with his beloved wife, Frances, and his daughter, Patricia. He was born in Maspeth, Queens, N.Y.

His loving children, Vincent Beechel, Jr, and his wife, Beverly, of Queens, N.Y., and Donna DeJoseph and her husband, John, of Brookfield; and a sister, Florence, survive him. He is also survived by five grandchildren, Dawn and her husband, Donald; Michael and his wife, Susan; Cristina and her husband, John; Shane; and Austin and his wife, Fenna; six great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

Mr Beechel raised his family in Richmond Hill, N.Y., where he worked as an electrician and in refrigeration. He was very talented in his field and could fix anything. He enjoyed bowling, dancing, drawing, and photography. Mr Beechel and his wife retired to Florida and lived there for 20 years. They moved to Newtown 17 years ago to be closer to their family. They were active parishioners at St Rose of Lima Church and enjoyed activities at their residence at Nunnawauk Meadows.

Mr Beechel was a World War II decorated war veteran, serving in the US Coast Guard. Even as his memory was fading, Mr Beechel always remembered stories from when he was in the service.

He is loved and deeply missed by his family and friends.

A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated May 8 in St Rose of Lima Church, Newtown. Interment followed in St Rose Cemetery.