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Michael Bachler Obituary
Born September 20, 1938, Dr. Bachler was raised on a farm near Prairie Farm, WI. He was preceded in death by his parents Raymond Bachler and Gladys (Stevens), and his older brother Daniel Bachler.
In 1956, he graduated from Prairie Farm High School (WI). In 1960, he graduated from the University of Wisconsin - Stout, Menomonie, WI, with a B.S. in Industrial Education, and in 1961 a M.S. degree in Mathematics and English/Speech. He earned his Doctor of Education Degree in 1976 from the University of Minnesota. Upon completion of the Naval Officer Candidate School at Newport, Rhode Island, he was commissioned in November 1961 and was sent to the Navy Supply Corps School in Athens, GA, where he graduated in May 1962. While Stationed in Athens, he met his future wife Mary Charlotte Bennett and they were married August 10, 1963. While active duty in the Navy, he served aboard the USS Los Angeles (CA 135), the USS Mars (AFS-1) and at USNAAS Chase Field, Beeville, TX, where their first son David was born. Mike ended his active Naval duty in August 1965, and he continued with Naval Ready Reserve until retirement as Commander in January 1989.
His professional career in the Industrial Arts Technology field ranged from a Rockford, IL, high school; Middle Tennessee State University at Murfreesboro, TN; Berry college at Rome, GA; Associate Director of the Vocational Education Materials Center of UGA, Athens, GA; the school systems of Commerce, GA and Winder, GA. As a teacher, he was known as "Dr. B."
While the father of two young sons in TN, he served as leader of the Cub Scouts, Webelos, and Boy Scouts. He held numerous leadership offices of professional organizations. In Athens, GA, he was active with Trout Unlimited, Athens Area Military Officers Assoc. of America, Clarke County Veterans Council, and the American Legion Post 185. His main hobbies were fishing and hunting.
By 1971, he stepped into deeper waters with his spiritual faith in the Lord Jesus and served in leadership positions with FGBMFI while living in TN and Rome, GA. His current church membership was with The Church at Southside (Baptist), Athens, GA.
He is survived by his wife Mary Charlotte (Bennett); sons, Lt Col David Bachler of Colorado Springs, CO, and Lt Col Donald Bachler (Donna) of San Antonio, TX; daughter, Susan Bittner (John) of Bethlehem, GA; granddaughters, Sharayah and Rachael Bachler of CO, and Sarah and Mary Bittner of GA; sister, Rachel Moore (Jack) of AZ; brother-in-law Dr. Paul Bennett (Thuan) of TX; several nephews, nieces, and cousins.
Gift acknowledgement may be in the form of a contribution to The Church at Southside, 100 Crooked Creek Road, Athens, GA 30607, or the Athens Humane Society.
The family will receive friends at the Lord and Stephens West Funeral Home from 2-4 p.m. on Sunday, December 14, 2014, followed by a service at 4 p.m. in the chapel with Pastor Jeff Williams officiating.
Lord and Stephens, WEST is in charge of arrangements. www.lordandstephens.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Michael Bachler
Melissa, David, Emma Sweasey
January 14, 2015
We continue to lift you in our prayers. Papa will truly be missed.
The David Hollenbach Family
January 2, 2015
David, Sharayah and Rachael, we are deeply sorry for your loss of such a fine gentleman, patriot, dad, and grandfather. His influence lives through you now. Know that he can finally rest and enjoy God's presence first hand. Our Lord will undoubtedly say, "Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master's happiness!"
Judy Turner
December 17, 2014
Dear Charlotte & David,
I just saw the news of Michael's death in the DNJ. So sorry to hear of your loss. I lost Justin two years ago on Dec. 29th. I still have trouble believing that he is really gone.
I was thinking about you (Charlotte) when I was dusting Justin's dissertation. I don't know if we would have finished it without your expertise. And tell David that I still have a copy of his comic strip about birds and conversation. I have used it several times at workshops with teachers.
Justin was able to author several books and get them published before his passing. you can find out about them on the following website: www.chestnuthillpublishing.com
I would love to hear from you.
Judy Turner
Suzy
December 16, 2014
As the days and weeks pass and as you return to life's routine may you continue to feel comfort by the love and support of family and friends. Psalms 73:26
December 16, 2014
To Lois and John Bittner and to the whole family. Our warm thoughts are with you at this sad and difficult time.
Helen and Bud Hubler
Carolyn Severson
December 15, 2014
Dear Charlotte, David, Don, and Susan,
You all remain in my thoughts and prayers at this very sad time. Mike was a wonderful man and he will be missed by all who knew him.
Love,
Carolyn Severson
Barbara Sawyer
December 14, 2014
Charlotte, sending our love and prayers to you and your family on the sad loss of such a wonderful precious man. Mike will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. May cherished memories and God's love grant you peace. Love, Mel & Barbara & family
Lynn Busbin Nelms, Tyler Nelms, & Rebekah Nelms
December 13, 2014
Charlotte, David, Don and Susan, I am so very sorry about Mike. I wish we were closer so that we could come and pay our respects. Charlotte, you and Mike were always so good to mama and daddy. Please know that ya'll will all be in our prayers. Lots of wonderful memories with the family. We love you all.
Louri Caldwell
December 13, 2014
Our hearts and prayers are with you. Much love
Capt Jill Wilhelm
December 13, 2014
Prayers and blessings to your family at this time. Mom will be happy to greet cousin Mike in heaven!
Mary Nedland Gerzmehle
December 13, 2014
So sorry to hear about Michael. We mourn his passing but rejoice in the knowledge of everlasting life through Jesus Christ, his and our Lord and Saviour. My mom relished his many letters and visits to the farm.
Lord & Stephens Funeral Homes West Chapel
December 13, 2014
Offering our deepest condolences during this difficult time.
Frances Hoge Harper
December 13, 2014
Charlotte, we were so sorry to hear about your wonderful Mike's passing. He was so kind and helpful to everybody, and he will be greatly missed! I am so sorry that I will be out of town Sunday, but I will be keeping you and your whole family in my prayers, especially during these next days and weeks. May God bless each one of you and comfort you, as we all celebrate Mike's wonderful life!
Much love to you always,
Frances & Billy
TL Turman
December 13, 2014
Served w/Mike driving Veterans to VA Hospital many years. Faithful Servant.
Linda (Turner) Keith
December 13, 2014
Charlotte, so sorry to read of your husband's passing. Praying for you and your family.
Randy Nation
December 12, 2014
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Lowell Schlough
December 12, 2014
So sorry to hear of cousin Mike's passing.
We'll all miss his great letters.
God's blessings & comfort to all of his family.
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