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William Joshua "Josh" Rechenmacher
William Rechenmacher Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for William Rechenmacher
Megan Sample
May 29, 2018
You are missed so much! You were such an incredible person! We were all so blessed to have you in our lives.
Joanne Gutcher
March 16, 2018
Momma loves and misses you every second of every day. But I am finally getting the help I need to get better.
Joanne Gutcher
November 3, 2017
Love you baby boy. Love, mom
Joanne Gutcher
January 7, 2015
Happy 32nd Birthday in Heaven son.... I love and miss you more than you will ever know.
Love, Mom
Joanne Gutcher
January 23, 2014
I love you
Joanne Gutcher
January 23, 2014
I know I am a couple of days late, but have had a lot going on. I miss you so much, my heart is broken and can not be fixed. The day he took you he took a part of me too. I am trying to come back to the old me but it is not working. I still keep in touch with a lot of your friends and have met a couple of new ones this year. I love hearing their stories about you. I tried to look up your my space but they have changed everything. I love and miss you so much. I can not believe it has been seven long years since I heard I love you mom and had a hug from you.
Love, mom
Adam Hamm
August 10, 2013
I just found out what happened, this week. Ran into someone at work who knew you and they told me. We spent the next hour swapping stories. I'm sorry I wasn't there for you this time.
Stephanie Johns-Collins
May 25, 2013
As we celebrate Memorial Day this weekend, I think of you and your sacrifice for our country. I finally got a chance to stop by the memorial at your high school and your mom was there. Some local boy scouts were planting flowers, making sure it stays beautiful. You are missed, and I think of you often. My brother is with you now, so show him a good time:)
Joanne Gutcher
May 19, 2013
Son, know that not a day goes by that I don't think about you or miss you. It has been almost 7 years and yet it still feels like yesterday. Thank you for the amazing friends that you have brought into my life, I enjoy their memories of you. I wish you could see how much Will has grown and looks like you. He is an amazing young man. I love you and miss you everyday.
Love, MOM
Sabrina Simpson
February 22, 2013
I was just thinking about you and I wanted to stop by and leave a few words. I miss you, brother; and our long, drawn out conversations in Iraq...both times. You are a wonderful person and I hope that we meet again on the other side!! Until then, I will keep your family in my prayers.
SGT Willingham
February 20, 2013
Sgt Rechenmacher and his company replaced ours in Baghdad 2007. His platoon shadowed us for weeks in preparation of our returning home. We were on simultaneous missions that day just over a mile apart... I can still remember the boom followed by traffic over the radio when their convoy was hit....then "K.I.A.". Seems almost there isn't a day goes by without remembering that horrible day. Wishing we could have done something to erase the insurgents from this earth. Thanks for the conversations Will, hope the next place is as amazing (or better) than we think it will be. See ya on the other side.
Peggy Childers
January 18, 2013
To the family and friends of Sgt. William J. Rechenmacher:
It has truly been my honor to sign William's guest book these past few years. Unfortunately, due to complications from my Multiple Sclerosis, this may be the last message I'm able to write. Please forgive me and know that William will always be remembered in my home.
With love and respect ~ Peggy
January 18, 2013
Luv Ya Brother.
Watch your 6
6 out
SGT MaC
Garrett McMahan
January 18, 2013
Today I lit a candle for Josh.I miss you brother and peace be with you and your family.You are not forgotten.
September 10, 2012
i love my daddy
Denise Withers
June 15, 2012
RIP josh we miss you lots
Chris Coomer
May 23, 2012
I'm writing a biography for you for Memorial Day to post and twice a year I think about you more than anything...The day you died and Memorial Day. I will never forget the look on SFC Well's face when he had to tell us the news and then we weren't allowed to tell anyone because they wanted to make an announcement at the shift change. I told Mikey anyway...There's so many painful days that I wish I could put behind me, but that's one I guess we'll live with forever. I miss you, I love you and rest in peace, my friend.
Matthew Culbertson
February 11, 2012
Hey dude,
I try to avoid these things because of the pain they bring. Not that I don't think about you every day that goes by. My favorite memory with you was dressing up like a women for that costume contest at the club :D Three dudes, including Shep, that had no business in tights. You were always there for me, the whole time leading up to Iraq, and I can never thank you enough. I even got a tat with your name on it on my arm. You live on with a lot of us forever. I love you buddy, RIP.
Cher'rie Hardiman
January 21, 2012
I will Always remember SGT Rech because unlike others he had a heart of gold and regardless of the issues he faced, he did not waiver once from his duty as a Soldier nor as a Leader. I first met Rech as a PV2 in January 2004, he got onto me about my uniform... I had on my field jacket and it wasn't zipped up, and all I could think was who the heck is this guy... lol It wasn't until I was on guard duty with Rech while in kuwait, preparing for our convoy into the borders of Iraq, during OIF II March of 2004. That's where I learned that Rech was only a few months older than I was and at the age of 21 had already become an NCO... A great achievement seldom reached by some. I've known Rech since then and ensured I talked to him every now and then even when he was no longer working within, but always a part of, the IMINT section. It broke my heart to know that my brother paid the ultimate sacrifice while serving out country.William J. Rechenmacher, You will always be remembered. Rest in Peace my Brother.
HHC 312 MIBN, HHC DSTB, 1CD
http://iraq.pigstye.net/article.php/RechenmacherWilliamJ
Peggy Childers
January 21, 2012
January 18, 2012
To the family and friends of Sgt. William J. Rechenmacher:
Always remembering William. "Some gave all."
Joanne Gutcher
January 18, 2012
It has been 5 hard years since GOD called you home. I love and miss you with all my heart. Love, Mom
krystina rechenmacher
August 28, 2011
I miss you Joshy....
Garrett McMahan
August 20, 2011
Hey Josh,
Well the past years it’s been very hard to deal with your passing. I was with Josh the whole deployment in Iraq. I was the first one that came over to the PSD squad and told Josh that he would be a great asset to the team. So Josh came with me and he was so ecstatic to be a gunner and always wanted to be that infantry type of guy instead of being behind the computer. He was so fun to be around with and cracked jokes all the time. If you ever needed help or need a hand he was always there to go the extra mile. I remember that day like yesterday and haunt’s me like crazy. I just wish I could go back and reverse everything that happen or told Josh to stay in G2 but I knew that’s all Josh wanted to do was to be a gunner. I talk to Josh a lot and sometimes I see him and he always smiles back at me. I just wish that he was still here to see his kids grow up. I just want them to know that there Daddy was a great man and hero to us all. I had some dog tags made in his honor and wear them everyday. I feel guilty and mad at myself because of what happen. Just the wrong place at the wrong time. I do the what ifs all the time but doesn’t bring u back. Josh u will all always be with me and I know that you are happy being God’s Gunner.
I love u Buddy,
Watch your 6
6 out
SGT MaC
Gena Hernandez
May 13, 2011
Josh,
This week has been hard. For some reason you've weighed heavily on my mind. I visited on your birthday, and the week of my late sons birthday. I'll visit again at the end of this month, and on the 4th, and so on... That's been the nicest part of being in the DC area... seeing those soldiers who come back wounded is made a bit easier by being able to visit you. I know a lot of other people visit too. There is always flowers, or a cav patch, or a guitar pick. I always bring the biggest brightest sunflowers i can find when they are in season ( You always said I reminded you of a sunflower, seasonal but so bright when I was...) I don't feel in season right now... I miss you. And it's hard. I look at my son who's twelve weeks monday and just wish so hard that you could have met him, and my daughters. I hope that maybe this year I'll run into one of our friends visiting you.. and we'll remember your hat, and the garth brooks singing, and the christmas in baghdad when we had the marshmellow eating contest and danced and sang and for a moment... just a moment forgot where we were. See you soon buddy :)
kimberly ikenburg
March 27, 2011
i would like to say to the family i am very sorry to hear about this. I used to know Josh alongtime ago. I am an old friend of sarah is sister. sorry I lost touch for so long. -kimberly ikenburg
Joanne Gutcher
January 21, 2011
I just want to Thank everyone for remembering Josh and writing here, it means so much to me.
I love and miss son more than you will ever know......
Love, mom
SGT Sabrina Simpson
January 20, 2011
Hey Buddy,
Had the opportunity to visit you on the 18th, buddy. I miss you kid and I hope you are causing a riot wherever you are. Its been 4 yrs, but, it still feels like yesterday. I still remember that smile you gave me the night before you passed. I will always remember your smile, Rech!!!
January 19, 2011
Joshy.. I know you're happy, healthy and having a blast where you are. But here, we're still stinging because you left us so early in your life. I miss hearing your voice, and having those big Joshy hugs that were reserved only for Aunt Missy. I miss seeing your mom smile like she use to. Do me favor.. Go hug her, and let her know you're there. She needs you... We all miss you and you've been felt here in our home and we appreciate and love it. Sue-Sue says you play jokes on her... doesn't surprise me you rotten kid! LOL She likes when you're here.. She's got that "gift" ya know.. I'm thankful for that as well.. and thanks for being here for my birthday. Becky saw ya and smiled. Joshua, I miss you so much.. my heart aches every day...I know it's just me being selfish because you're great in the scheme of Eternity but I'm stuck here, for now... Promise me, when it's my turn to come HOME, you'll have those beautiful eyes smiling at me and give me your big Joshy Hug... reserved only for Aunt Missy... I love you.
Norma dealcala
January 19, 2011
To the family of SGT William "Josh" Rechenmacher. I wanted to let you know that this past weekend I had the opportunity to visit Josh. I cannot believe it has been four years. But you may be gone but never forgotton. You are our HERO!!!!
MSG Norma Dealcala
Peggy Childers
January 18, 2011
To the family and friends of Sgt. William J. Rechenmacher:
Please accept my remembrance of William on the anniversary of his passing and know that he will never be forgotten.
Peggy Childers
www.IraqWarHeroes.org
Gabriel Galindo
January 18, 2011
It's been four years today buddy, and I still miss you and that crazy grin of yours. I still can't believe that I didn't get back to Baghdad before you were gone. I missed you by two weeks, but it might as well been forever. I just wanted to let you know that you have not been forgotten. Because of you and everyone else that we have lost, I have made it my duty to give it all when I am working with my Veteran clients in my job as a Veterans Employment Representative. You guys are my reminder that I have so much more to give.
First Team Rech!
January 7, 2011
happy birthday, josh.
we miss you.
December 20, 2010
Josh will have flowers, a beer, and company this christmas (at least until i lose feeling in my fingers, it's probably going to snow).
i try to visit as often as possible. i don't know who else is visiting (i know of a few), but i know i'm not the only one who is there on a regular basis. cav patches are hard to come by up here, and i've seen more than one laying there in honor and respect.
you are loved and missed, josh. i hope that i do your family and the rest of your friends honor in their stead when they cannot visit you.
Melisa Rechenmacher
July 2, 2010
Oh My Joshy. We think about you so often. We cry and laugh and remember things about when you were young. Krystina doesn't remember much, but she does remember you were full of life, fun and her favorite "boy" cousin... LOL (you were her ONLY boy cousin for a long time!) I can't believe you've been gone for three years. It hurts just like yesterday. One day I'm typing at you over the internet and the next day, your Uncle is coming home and tells me God has called you Home. Shock, tears, SCREAMS filled our house, as your Uncle David cried with us girls. Brittany was a wreak, Kym was numb and Sue-Sue.. hit her knees and laid her head on my bed and cried "no no, not my Joshy". Your Funeral in Jacksonville, was gorgeous. Your Uncle had so much pride being a pall-bearer. After he served, he hadn't expected you to join the Army. He is so proud of you. We fly a memorial flag every holiday with your picture on it. We went to Washington DC for Uncle David's job and we went to Arlington. I brought a rose from your Mama, and a purple Lilly from the girls and me. As we were there, reality hit. There were several other services going on, and since we had been able to make it to Arlington before then, it was like we were there, experiencing it. The 21 gun salutes, they just kept firing, and each one made a bigger hole in my heart. Seeing your headstone, made it real. It made it hurt more... It made me miss you more than I thought I already was. Your Mama knows I love you like you're my own, I have since you were 4. I'm so proud of you. Your Uncle is Proud of you, and your cousins are proud of you. Brittany's husband, Scott joined the army last year. He's waiting for the selection process for SF @ Bragg. Watch over him, Please Joshy. Brittany's got two beautiful baby girls now. You'd love 'em so much. Jessi is "gangster princess" at 2 and Rebecca... well, I think she was my little gift from God, born on my birthday having my red hair, smile, and dimples last year. I feel you here with us. I know you watch over us. I love you Joshy. I miss you, and this hole in my heart still remains. You are "my boy" Josh. Love, Aunt Missy
Tamara Smith
May 26, 2010
I don't know what to say but I have to say something. I was deployed with SPC Rechenmacher with the 1st Cav and saw him on occassion for training. I never got the opportunity to talk to him, I was working my way up to it. I spoke to him briefly while entering the dfac the day before I got the bad news. I was going through my own drama and when I went to the dfac the next day, something was different. So many people were sad. I asked a friend what had happened and she told me. She was crying and I understand, she worked with him everyday. I was saddened also when I heard but it wasn't real. I had JUST seen him the day before at the dfac. I don't want to open any healing wounds, I just wanted to stop by and give my deepest condolences to the family of a man/Soldier that had obviously touched the lives of many and was well liked. There is a memorial in the conference room at Battalion for him, this I saw when I was medevac'd at the end of January 2007. There are no words that can be said to make someone feel better when they've lost someone that they love. So with respect, I will only say that his presence is truly missed and after all this time, I think about the guy that seemed worth knowing that I didn't have the courage to really talk to. That's unfortunate for me, but I believe he is with Our Creator, Jesus Christ and that he is smiling.
Troy Byers-Short
April 5, 2010
Josh,
I was promoted to SFC on the 1st and the entire time during my promotion I just kept thinking about that grin on your face... that you always have and I just started laughing. I miss you brother. I think about you everyday and the dreams we had as far as our careers in the Army. I guess it is up to me to fulfill them for us. It is crazy the number of stories and memories I have of you. From the early days at Hood running around getting in trouble to the crazy parties and even when we were roommates at the house on Chad Dr. I never had a best friend before you and rest assured you won't ever be replaced. I miss you and ask that you look out for me. I look forward to seeing you again someday.
Jesse Dick
January 18, 2010
I never actually had the honor of meeting William in person. I will never forget him though. He died on my 21st birthday. While I was out with my friends cellebrating that day he made the ultimate sacrifice. I pray for his family and am thankful that there are men and women brave enough to defend this great nation, so that one day the future generations will not have to be in fear of terrorisom and can live in a safer America. God Bless his family and God Bless the USA.
AMN Jesse Dick USAF
606th Air Control Squadron
Mobile Combat Support Group
Peggy Childers
January 18, 2010
To the family and friends of Sgt. William J. Rechenmacher:
Remembering William on the anniversary of his passing. May our fallen heroes never be forgotten!
Peggy Childers
"Don't Let The Memory Of Them Drift Away"
www.IraqWarHeroes.org
Christopher Coomer
October 15, 2009
I just wanted to share my story about Rech...When I first got to 1st Cav, Rech was one of the first people to greet me at the barracks, ask me who I was, where I came from and if I needed anything. He opened up to me like we'd known each other for years. We sat around and talked while he helped me situate myself into a new unit. He invited me to his friend's parties and BBQs so I would be able to meet people. We talked about his troubles and all the other things about the Army that soldiers normally talk about. He introduced me to Matt and Mikey, two really great guys I had the honor to serve with.
When we deployed to Iraq, Rech was always on the forefront, volunteering for everything, doing everything and he was very well-known among all the soldiers. He was just "that guy" that everyone knew and loved. We didn't see much of each other after the deployment because he was the gunner for a security detail (that he volunteered for) and I was working at a prison in the area.
I saw him at the PX in Baghdad a few days before his death. He walked up to me and said he missed me and he was doing amazing! He was so excited that he was able to be a gunner on a truck and be a "real soldier", he said that he was engaged to be married and that everything else had just seemed to fall in place. We hugged and told each other to take care and that was the last time I saw him.
We had just finished our afternoon interrogations when we had gotten a call that there was an explosion and someone had been killed that we knew. There were several people on that convoy, so we were all terrified. It took about two hours after the explosion before we found out the news. I'll never forget that day as long as I live...I walked outside and SFC Wells looked mortified. I said "Is it someone we know?" and he said yes. Then I asked if it was Rech and he said Yes. We both hugged and started crying. I immediately left. It was the second friend in a month. I kept thinking to myself...if this keeps happening, I'm never going to live through this deployment.
I went to Mikey's room (another friend of Rech's and mine) and told him and then we went and told Matt (another friend)...it was just shock. Troy Cooper had died in December, so we were still shell-shocked from that.
More people died that year that we were in Iraq and we all came close a few times ourselves, but nothing will ever cure this pain that we all felt from that day. It was like a piece of our soul had been ripped from us and none of us knew what to do.
I just wanted to share my experience. This is not something I talk about often, but I feel that people need to know. It's easier to type it out than talk in person...it's just too hard to talk about.
Being in Iraq changes you...no matter who you are, when you experience death on this scale, you accept that people will never understand what we go through...they'll never understand how strong soldiers really have to be to make it day by day...but we make it and we remember why we fight and we move on never forsaking the fallen comrades that we love so much.
Josh - I will never forget you as long as I live. Before my grandfather died, he told me stories about WWII and told me that he hoped I'd never have to go through what he did in losing his battlebuddies....I never doubt his sacrifice, because you made it real. You and Troy made me realize that I have to live life every day because I might not be here the next. I will stay in Iraq until we all leave, always remembering you and Troy are the reason I fight. I love you man.
SGT Coomer, US Army
October 9, 2009
Visited Josh's grave in Arlington this week.
Athena Reed (bogowith/crick)
September 15, 2009
Its been a while since you were taken from us and yet it still feels like yesterday. I remember all the help you gave me in dealing with problems, or babysitting amber when i needed some help with her. You were always there for me even after i left the army. I remember calling you when i met and fell in love with bryan, when i found out i was pregnant with the twins, or calling to complain about something bryan did that ticked me off. You would just laugh and say something like "thats so like a guy" and make me forget that i was ticked at him. That little baby you helped babysit has turned into a beautiful 7yr old, i know that you can see her :) You always told me that you would look out for us and help us if you could and i know even without you here on earth that its true. I know in my heart that your the reason bryan keeps making it home safe from deployments, just like i know in my heart that your looking out for him now while he's in afghanistan. I miss you buddy
Steven Schantz
September 1, 2009
Joanne Gutcher
I am so deeply saddened by your loss! I had the opportunity to serve with "Rech", as we called him, during his first tour in Iraq. During this tour he served with a burning fervor, always volunteering for patrol duty as he thought he was the right soldier to protect us all from danger. He was quick to take on the most dangerous assignments, as if this was his purpose for being in Iraq. He never complained about assuming his role as a gunner in a convoy; rather, he welcomed the challenge. I am sure that his actions were the same during his second tour and on that fateful day of his greatest sacrifice.
His actions will not be forgotten! FIRST TEAM! Rest in peace my friend for you have done your duty well.
CW4 (Retired) Steven Schantz
July 28, 2009
I can't believe it has been over 2 years. Everytime I look at Jacob I see you and your beautiful smile. Working on giving him your wonderful personality. I miss you greatly.
Forever Love
Nicholas Vetrovec
June 9, 2009
My friend, My buddy, you will always be remembered.
courtney lefan
May 13, 2009
Josh is my cuzen.. i miss him so much its unreal. i can remember the last time i seen him i was eight (now i'm 15).. But we all (Aunt Joanne, my step mom, my sister,and josh) were standing in the main office of my school Jefferson Davis Middle Scool.. i came back from the loung and Aunt Joanne asked me if i knew who this man was i siad " no ma'" then she told me it was josh.. i jumped in joshes arms so fast i just about riped my dress huging him.... I miss you Joshy... your my hero and always will be..... love ya!!!!
Kenna larra
February 23, 2009
We love our Soldiers! We love our country and we cannot express enough love and compassion to the families. War does not discriminate – It breaks my heart to see the faces of the fallen. We want to give this gift to you. We are a 501c3 nonprofit organization! Over 1,500 portraits have been completed and shipped to the parents and or spouse - at no cost as this is a gift from one American to another!
Contact us directly at [email protected] or go to www.heropaintings.com. If you have already had a portrait completed, we pray that you are enjoying the portrait and God Bless You.
Sincerely,
Kenna
Nathan White
January 20, 2009
one more year gone. Yet is still seems like yesterday when I herd the news. The pain is still strong.
Yet we all still try and move on.
moving on is not a option. Remembering is the only way to calm the pain. And one more time i will say to you josh thank you from the bottum of my heart. You are what this country need more of.
A HERO!!!!! And I promice never to forget what you did for this country that I love and the country that i would gladly stand up for over and over again. Some people say as time goes by it seems that the memory of that day fades i say I feel that feeling every day.
I love you man!!!
I miss you.
In Memory of William ~ (Debra Estep)
January 19, 2009
Holding you all in my thoughts and prayers.
The Wind on The Downs
“I like to think of you as brown and tall,
As strong and living as you used to be,
In khaki tunic, Sam Brown belt and all,
And standing there and laughing down at me.
Because they tell me, dear, that you are dead,
Because I can no longer see your face,
You have not died, it is not true, instead
You seek adventure in some other place.
That you are round about me, I believe;
I hear you laughing as you used to do,
Yet loving all the things I think of you;
And knowing you are happy, should I grieve?
You follow and are watchful where I go.”
(Written by Marian Allen during World War l )
Two lines that I wish you to keep near your heart…….
“You seek adventure in some other place.
That you are round about me, I believe”
I did not know William, but I am remembering
his service and sacrifice. He is my hero. !
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
The Other Side
i'm over on the other side
where life and death softly divide.
left my skin and bones behind
now i'm over on the other side.
can you feel me there with you?
my breath is gone but i'm not through.
loved you then and i still do
from over on the other side.
i can fly. really fly.
below the earth ... all through the sky.
tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side.
it's good here on the other side.
the sweetest songs...the bluest skies.
thank you for the tears you cried
but it's good here on the other side.
i can fly. really fly. below the earth...all through the sky.
tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side
the world is smaller than a needle's eye.
where life and death softly divide.
when you leave your skin and bones behind
i'll be waiting on the other side.
i can fly. really fly. below the earth ... all through the sky.
go tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side.
Song lyrics by Don Conoscenti
C Desert Muse/SESAC
www.donconoscenti.com
(Used with permission)
“I hope it brings great comfort to any and all.
Peace on you. DonCon” 4-2008
The Other Side –
(To hear the song)
http://tinyurl.com/3o8gol
Sincerely,
Deb Estep ~ Ohio
Proud Air Force Mom SSgt Vince – Lackland AFB
Remembering The Fallen – Blog
http://tinyurl.com/3z8p55
Angel and soldier drawing I have shared here.
http://tinyurl.com/6gey8b
Peggy Childers
January 18, 2009
To the family of Sgt. William J. Rechenmacher:
William gave the ultimate sacrifice and will be held in the hearts of Americans forever. I cannot and will not let our fallen heroes be forgotten. My deepest sympathy to you. "Some gave all."
Peggy Childers
"Don't Let The Memory Of Them Drift Away"
www.IraqWarHeroes.org
Alfreda Vu
December 22, 2008
Rech,
It seems like forever has gone by since you passed, and I still and will always think of you everyday. It is hard for me to understand why you are gone at such a young age. I will never forget you and the joy you bring to those you are around. I miss you dearly, and will meet with you again one day. I will always love you as my family, and keep your family in my prayers. Stay Blessed.
Justin Agee
November 8, 2008
Josh,
I miss you. We had a lot of good times and shared a lot of memories together.
June 18, 2008
You are remembered and respected. Thank you Sgt Rechenmacher!
nathan white
January 19, 2008
After one year. the pain is still there. You will always be missed.
love you man!
Cheryl Nix (Chalou)
January 19, 2008
Rech,
One year has passed already and I just want you to know that we have not forgotten about you. Thanks for being a true American Hero. Miss you.
Debbie , Kenny Coffey
January 18, 2008
Our continued thoughts and prayers out to the RECHENMACHER / GUTCHER families.Knowing now what they have always known is one of many reasons that our HERO[ES] shall NEVER be forgotten.Rest well brother as prommissed that star spangled banner shall FOREVER wave.Your name stamped in steel is FOREVER clutched in the tallons,as your spirit FOREVER soars high in the skies in the symbol of our great nation..THANK..YOU...HO..YAAH.......B.V.C.
Rest In Peace
Michael iezzi
January 18, 2008
Josh,
Thinking and praying for you on the 1st anniversary of your passing into eternal glory. May God hold you in the palm of His hand. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
SGT Sabrina Simpson
December 23, 2007
I love you Josh, being home without you is not the same. I just got off the plane, and the first thing on my mind was not my family, but you not standing by my side. I miss you SGT Rech.
Melissa (Dugan) Oakley
November 8, 2007
Josh,
I remember meeting you when Sara and DJ were in band together...We instantly became friends...Then we were in the Drill Unit together and were all but inseperable for those few years...I can't believe you are gone already...My husband is over on his second tour, and I know that you are watching over him and keeping him and others safe...You are my hero and I will NEVER forget you!! I hit the floor when my brother called and said you were gone...I didnt know what to say...I didnt make it to your memorial, but when we go to DC next year, you are my first stop! I PROMISE!! Love you Josh...See you on the other side!!
October 13, 2007
You are cordially invited to attend the “Celebration of Life” Event as we honor and recognize the lives of Our Community Members and Fallen Soldiers we have lost during 2006-2007.
The program includes, a DVD Pictorial Memorial Tribute, Music, Candle lighting, Balloon Release, and Refreshments. Each family receives a personalized ornament to place on a Christmas tree as a remembrance of their loved one.
Families who have experienced loss find this event a wonderful time of remembrance and healing. We would love your family to be apart of this event as our Community joins together to recognize and honor your loved one during this Holiday Season.
We will be honoring all the Fallen Soldiers that were assigned to Fort Hood Texas. If you are not able to attend and would like to send a favorite photo, please feel free to do so.
RSVP By Website www.col2007.com
Call Celebration of Life Staff at 254-245-7061
Permanent mural in Iraq
October 8, 2007
Carrie rechenmacher
October 2, 2007
So sorry about your loss. Josh looked and sounded like a great man - too young to leave this earth. God Bless
I was searching around on this last name(geneology). Feel free to contact me if you like to sometime. My father came over after WWII from Mainz. My email is listed below. I work for PB County.
Michael Roesner
September 25, 2007
You will be missed by us all. Thanks for all you have done and God Bless. 1st Team!
September 11, 2007
I remember when I first met Rech. He had locked his keys in his truck at work and I was tryin to help him get in it, even then he was just laughing about it and making jokes. He was a good friend, always laughing and having fun. You will always be missed brother. Rest In Peace Rech.
SPC William Cole (Camp Liberty, Iraq)
August 16, 2007
There is nothing that I can say or do to take away the pain or bring you peace in your time of sorrow, but I will offer you and your family my heart felt condolences. I also offer you my prayers that in time the pain will easy and the memories of your HERO will carry you through each day and night. I want to thank your HERO, for his/her selfless act of becoming a member of the armed forces, his/her willingness to defend the United States of America, all that we hold sacred and for the sacrifice that will forever be etched in the memories of all those who knew him/her. Though tears can never bring him/her back, we hope that our tears express our gratitude for the sacrifice that he/she made and our sorrow at his/her passing. I believe for every fallen HERO there is a star shining brightly up above to remind us of the precious gift we were given.
Your mission on earth is complete and you are now a member of GOD’s Heavenly armed forces. Stand down brave warrior and take your rightful place in Heaven with all the HEROES who have passed before.
I made a special promise to LE RON A. WILSON, a dear family friend who joined the Army with three other friends, one of whom is my son (Le Ron was killed in action on 07/06/07 at the age of 18) on the day he was laid to rest as I touched his coffin, that I would never forget him nor would I forget those that gave their lives for our country before him, with him and after him and so when I came across www.legacy.com, I thought what a great way to keep my promise to Le Ron, so I will continue to leave tributes in each guest book until the day there is no longer the need to leave these tributes to a FALLEN HERO.
REST IN PEACE, HERO, YOU WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN!!
PROUD MOTHER OF A U.S. SOLDIER
Currently stationed in Germany
Althea Barrett(Queens, NY)
Patsy Jo Reed Sircy
August 14, 2007
Sincere sympathy and love, Pat - R.N.
matt
August 8, 2007
Josh was one of the best friends I have had in the Army. He would always be there for you when you if you needed help. I spent my last Thanksgiving with him at home and his last birthday so this is like losing a brother. Rech touched many lives and his memories will live on forever.
August 6, 2007
Thank you for the sacrifice made by Sgt Rechenmacher and the sacrifice made by everyone who loves and misses him! May God bless all of you!!
Dave Seamans
August 2, 2007
To the family of Sgt. William J. Rechenmacher. On behalf of my family please accept our deepest sympathy in the loss of Josh know that he will always be a hero and we will forever keep him and his family in our hearts and prayers. We understand the loss, pain, anxiety, anger and sense of this being some nightmare for our son and brother Pfc. Timothy J. Seamans, US Army was KIA on August 18, 2005 in Samarra, Iraq. Know that he now walks with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ in everlasting eternal light along with his Band of Brother gone before him. May God Bless You and Keep You, May He Shine His Everlasting Light Upon You Always.
In Christ Love,
Dave, Monica and Ashley Seamans
7130 Oakwood Dr.
Jacksonville, FL 32211
July 20, 2007
to the parents of Sgt Rech,
i am deeply sorry for your loss. i served with your son at ft hood when things got bad for me, and i ended up in trouble. he helped me when he didn't have to, he talked to me like he knew me for years...the best memory of us together was in the spring of 06 behind the battalion STB on a smoke break doing our impressions of our beloved battalion commander and sgt major, laughing so hard we almost threw up.
may your son rest in peace.
forgive me
July 3, 2007
Rech, "fresh-air breaks" will never be the same without you. As much as it saddens me to think you are no longer here to have "just another day in paradise," I know that now you've got the real thing. See you when I get there, Sarn'.
Helena Souza
June 28, 2007
My sincere condolences to the family. I did not know SGT Rechenmacher, however my boyfriend was serving in Iraq with him and he was really upset with this lost.
Sincerely,
Scott Lang-CW4 Ret, Imagery Analyst
June 21, 2007
My sincere condolences. Never met him, wish I had.
daniel mccormick
June 20, 2007
i know what you r going through because i lost my little brother in december its been hard but this is my cell if you wanna talk 866 0211
M L
May 29, 2007
Rock on hero!!!!..We all in America want to say...THANK YOU FOR THE ULTIMATE SACRIFICE FOR OUR FREEDOM!!.Guide the boys in Iraq and all war areas so that they may come home!!..We all love you even if we didnt know you!!..
Stephanie Johns
May 29, 2007
Just wanted everyone to know that Josh's name was added to the Jacksonville Veterans Memorial Wall here in Jacksonville, FL this Memorial Day. Though he is greatly missed, we all still love him and must remember all of those that are still fighting for us.
Carol Gilbertson
May 27, 2007
I was Josh's 7th grade math teacher at Keller Middle Schol. Even though Josh never got into any serious trouble, he and his friend Matt Rees were always up to some kind of mischief and you could always tell by the grin on Josh's face.
I remember the day Josh came back to visit me at KMS to tell me he was in the Army. He knew I was a very patriotic person and you could see the pride in his face as he was telling me of his service.
My heart broke when I got the news earlier this year of his death.
I now teach 8th grade US History at KMS and Josh's picture is on my Honor Wall right next to the American Flag in my classroom.
I will be traveling with a group of 8th graders from KMS to Washinton DC this week. On Wednesday, May 30th, we will get the privilege of honoring Josh at his gravesite in Arlington National Cemetery with a wreath. For the friends and family of Josh, know that you are in my thoughts and prayers. Also know that Josh will always be remembered in my classroom as a hero and my students in years to come will all know his story of commitment and sacrifice to his country.
Melody Schwarz
May 18, 2007
I am only sorry for the opportunity that has been lost for you to meet your son. You were a wonderful person and I know will be greatly missed!
Love Forever,
Melody
Michael Iezzi
April 23, 2007
Father we entrust our brother Josh to your mercy. You loved him greatly in this life: now that he is freed from all its cares, give him happiness and peace forever. Welcome him now into paradise where there will be no more sorrow, no more weeping or pain, but only peace and joy with Jesus your Son, and the Holy Spirit forever and ever.
May God hold Josh in the palm of His hand. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. My deepest sympathy.
BERT HOLLER
April 22, 2007
WE ARE SO SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS. WE KNOW WHAT YOU ARE GOING THROUGH. ON JANUARY 22, 2007 WE LOST OUR SON-IN-LAW SPEC. NICHOLAS P. BROWN TO AN IED IN IRAQ . HE WAS IN 2/7 CAV AND LOVED BEING A SOLDIER. FROM WHAT I'VE READ OF HIM JOSH ALSO LOVED BEING A SOLDIER. WE ALWAYS NEED SOMEONE TO KEEP US UPBEAT AND SMILING. NICK WAS SUCH A MAN TOO. THEY WERE BOTH GREAT SOLDIERS WHO UPHELD THE FINEST TRADITIONS OF THE UNITED STATES ARMY. THESE HEROES WILL ALWAYS BE REMEMBERED BY THOSE OF US WHO VALUE HEROISM. GOD GAVE HIS SON SO THAT WE COULD SEE OURS AGAIN. MY SISTER WROTE THAT NICK WAS IN HEAVEN TRYING TO TEACH OTHER WARRIORS THE"ARMY WAY". I'M SURE HE AND JOSH ARE GANGING UP ON THEM TO MAKE SURE THEY DO IT RIGHT. WE PRAY FOR YOU AND CRY WITH YOU. THANK YOU,
Jennifer Hinojosa
April 21, 2007
Cowboy,
Only God knows how much I miss you. Ever since AIT where we meet.. to Tampa.. to seeing you in Iraq back in 2005 we always had a special bond that we could always pick up were we left off. I went back and dug up old pictures and i have the pool cue that you gave me out so that i can see it all the time. If anyone wants to see some older pictures of Rech or Josh u can go to my myspace page search under the name Jennifer Hinojosa or screen name ~~Jen~~. I finally got past the crying stage and i try to remember the good time and the last time that i saw him in iraq. "Soliders never really die...because people will always keep their memory alive"
Sgt Jennifer R. Hinojosa
Ryan Gutcher
April 20, 2007
Josh-
Hey bro, I really miss ya. I did a report on you the other day in class (MY BRO, MY HERO). It was a power point. The teacher said it was "GREAT" and that I should be very proud. Then I got to thinking, and I know that Im extremly proud. Not because of the report, but the fact that I get to say you are my bro. I love ya and miss ya and I'll see you again someday.
your bro,
RyRy
Robyn Garside
April 18, 2007
MAY GOD BLESS YOU AND YOURS. I HAVE JUST LEARNED OF YOUR GREAT LOSS AND WISH TO EXPRESS MY DEEPEST CONDOLENCES. PLEASE KNOW THAT THERE ARE PEOPLE OUT HERE WHO DO CARE AND YOUR HERO WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN. HOLD TIGHT TO YOUR TREASURED MEMORIES THAT HIS SPECIAL SMILE MAY CONTINUE TO SHINE. I PRAY THAT PEACE WILL FIND YOU ALL SOMEDAY. GODSPEED AND SEMPER FI.
A PROUD MARINE MOM
Sara Arthur
April 15, 2007
Bubba,
I dont know what exactly to say except i miss you. i thought things were supposed to get easier but its getting harder. everything seems to remind me of you. sometimes i even think i can here you. you were the best brother anyone could ask for and i am so grateful for the time that i had with you. i just wish i had longer. i was going through pictures the other day and zach was so excited " that's uncle yoshi" and "wanna see more yoshi picture and brandon picture". things arent the same without you. i just keep waiting for you to get on yahoo and tell me how your mission went. you will never know how much you are missed. i love you and you will always be my big brother and my hero. i love you. -sis
Richard
April 1, 2007
I miss you so much Rech.
SGT. Samantha Bates
March 17, 2007
Josh,
Well I'm here back in this GOD forsaken country and it is just not the same with out you here to say "just another day in paradise". You were my Soldier, my Mentor and my Friend. We had great times while we were like the time we got splashed with the mud on our way to the P.X. and all we could do was laugh about it. you will be Missed but never forgotten by me and you will always be SGT. Wm JOSH Rechenmacher to me. There is so much I want to say to you, but i just don't know what to say I miss you and I'm Sorry. I know you said never be sad if anything happened to you but it is hard right now> Don't worry when we get back we will have that big party that we planned and we will celabrate you life. To Joann and Ron it was great seeing you again even though it was at a bad time, you are always in my prayaers and so will Josh. He will never be forgotten
March 15, 2007
as the girlfriend of josh's brother..i heard alot about him from day one from his family. mrs. jo was always so proud of her son. then i finally got to meet him and i could see what they meant. although i only got to hang with him a few times..we would talk some while he was away and he was truely a great guy. i will miss hearin about how he was comin home and when he did he would tell us stories or explain to my blonde self what all of it meant! :)! mrs. jo..although we had a rough patch..i still think of u like a second mom and i am so happy i got the honor of meeting josh. whenever someone talked about iraq..i would speak up and say yeah i know someone there and i felt so proud to have known someone who held the highest of honors! i want u to know me and my family will always be here for yall! im really upset that he isnt here anymore...but it doesnt overcome the pride i have that i knew what they call "A True Hero"
Love, Tracy
Amber Schlecht
March 14, 2007
I came upon this site while looking for people from my family tree (we are related). Thank you for your sacrifice.
Stacey Hoopes
March 9, 2007
Josh, friend, smoking buddy. We deployed to Iraq together back in 2004 when I was stationed in Ft. Hood. We became very close and he became a very good friend of mine. He always went out of his way just to make sure everybody else was "ok" and I admire him for that. Rest in Peace Josh. I'm proud of you. HOOAH!
Mylessa Denny
March 5, 2007
Rech -
I was very honored to serve with you while at Ft. Hood. Any mischief that came from the Deltas usually started with you, but you always got the job done. You're smile and attitude kept us all going, especially on those long days in the motorpool and in the field.
To your family, my deepest condolences.
Ashlie Trenton
February 27, 2007
I hold in my hand a butterfly,
so long ago I set it free
hoping and praying one day it
would find it's way back to me.
I hold in my mind a secret,
shared between only two
and never known to anyone new.
I hold in my heart a love,
forever and always true
remembered and not forgotten
for you.
Josh- I know you know what I am thinking and feeling right now. Everyday some thought of you seems to cross my mind and everything still doesn't feel real. I want to thank you for the greatest gift and everything you brought to my life. I would definantly not be who I am today if you had not been a part of my life. You are greatly loved and will be greatly missed.
To ALL of Josh's family and friends: You all had an oppurtunity to meet and get to know an amazing man. Please do not forget the sacrifice that he has made for each and every one of us so that we may be free.
Always in our hearts, Love, Mom
February 26, 2007
Josh and Brandon at there best
February 26, 2007
Josh and Brandon two peas in a pod
February 26, 2007
"The Four Muskateers"
February 26, 2007
Josh working
February 26, 2007
"RECH"
February 26, 2007
Sgt. William Joshua Rechenmacher
February 26, 2007
MSG Jimmy D. Temples
February 25, 2007
Rech,
I have waited for over a month to try and think of the words to say to you. I can't believe your gone. I wish we could go back to the days at Ft. Hood when I first got there and you were always there to help me out. In my many years in the Army, there are few like you. Your smile was contageous and your attitude always upbeat. You and I had our times, but I always wanted what was best for you. I think maybe I was to hard on you. I saw you in the dining facility the day before you were gone and didn't get over to talk to you. You just gave me that grin you always had and it lifted my spirits. I appreciate all you have done for me, my family and our country. You gave all you had. Thank you! I will always look for you in every young soldier I meet. I still here your favorite phrase from some of the soldiers you served with. I hope today is like you always said "Just another day in Paradise!"
Gabriel Galindo
February 20, 2007
Rech, my friend and battle buddy, I'm sorry that I didn't make it to Iraq soon enough to see you again. Now that I'm here, the Cav is just not the same like our last deployment. I miss your crazy smile and your crazy laugh. Most of all I miss just talking and laughing with you. You were always finding your way into some kind of trouble but somehow you always got yourself out if it as well. We have ridden this Cavalry horse together for years now, and I'm saddened to have to ride alone. You will never be forgotten. Until we meet again my friend...
Ryan Gutcher
February 19, 2007
Josh-
Hey bro I can just remember when we were sitting in the living room (a long time ago) playing with hotwheels,or when i first met you i walked into the house and you were at the sink doing dishes, and my dad told me that you were going to be my step brother. I love ya and miss ya and I'll see you again someday. You will never be forgotten.
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