John James Bachtel

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of John James Bachtel of Aberdeen, MD. John peacefully left this world on February 22, at the age of 76, at York South Rehab following a brief illness. John is now reunited in heaven with his beloved wife of 43 years, Mary Ann Bachtel, and their two Westies- Lance and Buddy. He was also preceded in death by his son William Bachtel of South Carolina, parents Al and Rose Bachtel of Santa Cruz CA, sister Shirley Wagner, and granddaughter Faith.

John leaves behind his loving son, Dennis L. Bachtel and wife Donna R. of Felton PA; daughter, Debra L. Bachtel of Aberdeen MD; granddaughter Victoria Nicole Bachtel and husband Paul R. of Seven Valleys PA; grandson Michael E. Tucker of Aberdeen MD; his great-grandchildren - Reighlyn, Camden, Jordan, and Sadie; and 2 brothers, Pete Bachtel & David Bachtel of Santa Cruz CA, all of whom were deeply cherished by him.

John was born in Eugene Oregon, but at an early age moved to Santa Cruz CA where he resided until he was drafted into the US Army. John proudly served his country in Vietnam, where was wounded in service and awarded a Purple Heart. Upon returning home from Vietnam, John was stationed at Aberdeen Proving Ground, where he served as Military Police, and where he met the love of his life, Mary Ann. They remained in Aberdeen for the remainder of their lives. John was a Maintenance Supervisor with the Maryland Transportation Authority, having worked on the Key Bridge from the time the bridge was still under construction, also working on The Fort McHenry & Harbor Tunnels, until he retired in 2011. He served in the Maryland National Guard for 13 years and was an active member of the Elks Lodge.

A man of great character, John was generous and always willing to lend a hand to those in need. He had a natural talent for fixing things and took immense pride in helping others, whether it was feeding and caring for stray animals, or helping family, friends, or strangers with things such as auto and home repairs. He was a member of Grace United Methodist Church, where he regularly volunteered with the Wednesday Night Supper and contributed to the community pantry, embodying his spirit of selflessness.

Known for his quick wit and great sense of humor, John had an unmatched ability to tell stories that would captivate anyone in earshot. His hobbies brought him much joy, including thrift shopping, yard sales, collecting and repairing antique clocks, and camping with his wife Mary Ann. The thing that brought John the most joy was taking care of his family. He was dependable and always showed up, often bringing small gifts or treasures (which he found while thrifting) to put smiles on the faces of his grandchildren.

John's life was a testament to the values of service, kindness, and love. He treated everyone with kindness and made sure to share a joke or put a smile on the faces of those he interacted with. He taught us how to fix things, how to treat humans and animals with love and respect, how to make the best out of bad situations, along with countless other life skills and lessons. His children and grandchildren are truly blessed to have had the world’s greatest Dad & Pop-Pop. He will be deeply missed, but his legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

A memorial service conducted by Rev. Dr. Braulio Torres will be held on Saturday, March 15 at 11:00am at Grace United Methodist Church in Aberdeen. Contributions in his memory may be made to either the Humane Society of Harford County, 2208 Connolly Road, Fallston, MD 21047 or to Grace United Methodist Church Food Pantry, 110 W. Bel Air Ave, Aberdeen, MD 21001. Rest in peace, Pop-Pop. You will forever be loved and remembered.