Billy Lechler, 81, of McGregor, died Sunday, Dec. 30, 2012.

Funeral services were held Thursday, Jan. 3, at Cole Funeral Home Chapel in McGregor with the Rev. Carol Hambrick officiating. Interment was in McGregor Cemetery.

Mr. Lechler was born March 9, 1931, in McGregor, the son of the late Joe and Clara Ruth (Marshall) Lechler. He was a 1949 graduate of McGregor High School. On Aug. 13, 1952, he married Mary Beth Lofland. She preceded him in death on June 20, 1990. He served in the U.S. Navy from Jan. 1, 1951, to Nov. 1, 1954, serving during the Korean Conflict. He was a member of the VFW and the American Legion. He was employed as a tire builder at General Tire and Rubber Company in Waco. He later became a supervisor for McGregor Milling and Grain. In 1996, he retired from Escoa as a supervisor after 33 years of service in the grain business. He was a member of College Avenue Baptist Church where he served on the church fellowship committee.

Also preceding him in death were a brother, Elmer Lechler; and a grandson.

Survivors include three daughters, Marilyn White of Temple, Dana Henderson of Clifton and Lisa O’Leary of Waco; two brothers, Edwin Lechler of McGregor and Edward Lechler of Wharton; a sister, Frances Younce of Oglesby; six grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.

For those desiring, the family has suggested the Alzheimer’s Association, 3429, Executive Center Dr., Suite 100, Austin, TX 78731 for memorial contributions.