Russell Bechtold, 85, of Avon

Russell Bechtold died Tuesday, August 25, 2026 at Avera Sacred Heart Hospital in Yankton. Funeral services are 10:30 AM, Friday, August 28, 2026 at Zion Lutheran Church in Avon. Burial is in the Trinity Presbyterian Cemetery, rural Avon. Visitation is Thursday at the church from 5-7 pm with sharing of memories at 6:30. Peters Funeral Chapel in Avon is in charge of arrangements.

Russell Paul Bechtold was born on January 7, 1941, at his grandparents’ home near Mora, Minnesota, to Earl and Selma (Haugen) Bechtold. He spent his early years in Minnesota before the family moved to the Alpena, South Dakota area.

Russell attended school in Alpena until his sophomore year of high school, when he transferred to Huron High School. He graduated from Huron High School in 1959 and went on to attend Huron College, graduating in 1963.

Russell began his teaching career in Kimball, South Dakota, where he taught for three years. In August of 1964, he married Dianne Plate. In 1966, Russell and Dianne moved to Avon, South Dakota, where Russell began what would become a 33-year career in the Avon School System.

While teaching in Avon, Russell earned his master’s degree in history from the University of South Dakota. Over the years, he became affectionately known as “Mr. B” to generations of students. Russell loved teaching and took great pride in being involved in school activities. He spent many years serving concessions and decorating for prom, always giving his time and energy to make these events special.

Throughout his 33 years in the Avon school system, Russell had the privilege of watching many students graduate and go on to accomplish great things. He cared deeply about his students and was proud of their successes.

In 1991, Russell lost his beloved wife, Dianne, to heart complications. Although her loss was difficult, Russell carried on and continued to live his life, remaining a familiar and caring presence in the Avon community. He spent many years acting as Mayor of Avon, Avon Fire District Treasurer, Board of Directors for St. Michaels Hospital in Tyndall, SD and ROCS in Lake Andes, SD. He also served as “the unofficial city police officer” being known for his policing in his red Ranger pickup.

Grateful for sharing his life; Todd (Dawn) Bechtold – Sioux Falls, Tonia (Kevin) DeJong -Avon, Amy (Mark) Beeson - Avon and Jason (Terrill) Bechtold - Huron.  Russell’s legacy continues with his grandchildren and great grandchildren: Tony Zimmerman and Leyton; Justin (Kori) DeJong and Daron, Jovohn, Avaya; Nick (Morgan) DeJong and Madi, Emerie, Alayna; Cody (Halee) and Asher, Kenny and Baby D; Wyatt (Amanda Mae) and Avery, Alyvia, Witten; Kole (Bree) Beeson and Pepper; Morgan (Jacob) Potmesil and Emmett; Brooke (Quenton Timm) Bechtold and Baby T, Kendra Bechtold; Brenna (Logan) Mielke and Landon and Carson; Logan (Julia) Ackerman and Arlo. Other family members left to cherish his memory include his sister Valoris (Dennis) Heezen. Beloved in-laws: Arthur (Karen) Heezen, Barbara (Wenton) Wagner, Paula (Duane) Thompson, Sheldon Plate and many nieces, nephews, and great friends.

Russell was preceeded in death by his loving spouse Dianne Bechtold; parents Earl and Selma Bechtold; siblings Roger Bechtold, Shirley Heezen, Sheryl (Willie) Kremer. mother-in-law Doris (Fred) Kieser, father-in-law Earl Plate.

Russell will be remembered as a hardworking, dependable, loving father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who was loved by all who knew him.