Michael Paul Bechter

Michael Paul Bechter, a loving, generous, gracious and brave son of Ralph (deceased) and Kathleen Bechter. Beloved brother of Cynthia (Terrence) Bechter Smith and Albert Owen Bechter. Passed on to a higher place October 2, 2024 at Summa Akron City Hospital with his family by his side, three days short of his 62nd birthday, following a long illness with complications from paralysis, which he suffered in a 1983 motorcycle accident.

Michael had spent his 21st birthday in Akron City Hospital after the accident celebrating with buddies and a few beers in the Rehab lounge. He continued rehabilitation at OSU Dodd Hall before returning to his family home amidst a record snow storm.

In his younger days Mike had played volleyball with the Akron Turner Club and was on his school's basketball team. He continued playing basketball with the Rubber City Rollers. Traveling with the team to London, Ontario for the wheelchair basketball play-offs.

Mike also, participated in the Americans with Disabilities campaign. Volunteering to test wheelchair access at public places.

Michael attended Kent State University and University of Akron graduating with a drafting degree and then moved into full employment in the engineering field. Mike has worked for a number of years as Bridge Designer with Arcadis, an international engineering firm at the Akron office.

Michael inherited his grandma Narmore's gaming thrill. He played poker and went to the horse races at Northfield Racetrack with friends and made casino trips with family to Las Vegas and the Ohio Riverboats. He also traveled to Australia, New Zealand, Fiji and Hawaii.

Mike was a Cleveland Browns fan. He and Rich Boso (Lyn) had season tickets and attended the home games, which included the Port Authority pre-game festivities - barbecue, cigars, drinks and (candy bars). He also, inherited the Bechter's appreciation of art and attended many art exhibits with his sister, Cindy (Terry).

Michael, especially enjoyed camping and fishing with his brother, Owen. Their travels took them from Canada to Texas. They called themselves the Adventure Bound Bechter's. And, together over the years and the many trips the brothers caught one fish.

Michael will be missed by many and will always have a special place in his loved one's hearts. Michael had many challenges in life but, also many accomplishments and he cherished his life.

We love you, Michael. Be proud of facing your challenges. Be free.

Calling hours will be 4-7pm, Wednesday, Oct. 9, at the Hummel Funeral Home, 500 E. Exchange St. Akron, Ohio 44304. Funeral Service will be 11:00am, Thursday, Oct. 10, at the funeral home followed by interment at Holy Cross Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation, https://www.christopherreeve.org/, for curing spinal cord injury by advancing innovative research and improving the quality of life for individuals and families impacted by paralysis.