John L. Lechler, Sr.

John L. Lechler, Sr., age 71, of Sidney, passed at his home on Friday, November 24, 2023.

Cremation has taken place and there will be no viewing. Military Graveside Service and inurnment will be at the Black Hills National Cemetery in Sturgis, SD in the spring of 2024. In lieu of flowers, memorials have been suggested to Disabled American Vets, Vietnam Vets of American and the Wounded Warriors Project.

Friends may stop at the Gehrig-Stitt Chapel to leave condolences for the family. You may view John's Book of Memories, leave condolences, photos and stories at http://www.gehrigstittchapel.com.

Gehrig-Stitt Chapel & Cremation Service, LLC is in charge of John's care and funeral arrangements.

John Joseph Lechler Sr. was born February 23, 1952 in Beach, ND. He married Virginia Moore in 1970. He graduated from Beach High School in 1971 and enlisted in the Air Force. While serving in the Air Force, 3 children were born, daughter Lisa and sons James and John Jr. He served in the Air Force from 1971 to 1975 and was stationed at bases in Ogden, UT, Ubon Thailand and Minot, ND. After serving in the Air Force, he attended the State School of Science in Wahpeton, ND from 1975 to 1977 and graduated with a degree in diesel mechanics. He then worked for several oil field and gas service companies throughout his career. His work with the oil field and gas industry took him all over the Rocky Mountain region and to Russia for a year. Due to health issues, he retired in 2012 and eventually moved to Sidney, NE to be closer to his family.

He was proceeded in death by his parents August and Marjorie Lechler, brothers Anthony and James Lechler.

He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Virginia, daughter Lisa and spouse Kenan of Sidney, son James and spouse Nora Lechler of Cheyenne, WY and son John Jr. of Rozet, WY, 8 grandchildren, 3 great-grandchildren, sister-in-law Jean Lechler of Gillette, WY sister-in-law Linda Gasho of Julesburg, CO, sister-in-law Mona Sult of Beach, ND, sister-in-law Kim Scott and spouse Thad of Cameron, TX and numerous nieces and nephews.