In memory of Aldo Bechaz who died June 27, 2009, at age 84, following a short illness. Aldo was a first-generation American who lived a simple life based on basic values of being honorable, working hard and helping others. His life revolved around his Catholic faith, his love of country and his family. He was born March 25, 1925, to John and Selma Bechaz in Big Rapids and, except for his military duty, lived his entire life in the Big Rapids community. He enjoyed the outdoors and hunting turkey and deer. Aldo was a life-long active member of St. Mary Church and a member of the Knights of Columbus. He joined the Army at the age of 22 and earned the rank of Corporal in Hq Co. 2nd Battalion prior to his honorable discharge in 1951. He was a long time proud and active member of the American Legion Post #98, the American Legion Firing Squad and Am-Vets Post #1941. He worked on local construction projects, including Ferris Institute and then worked for the City of Big Rapids prior to his retirement. Family and friends will remember Aldo for his gentle nature, his kindness to others, and his generous spirit. He was a shy man, but had a good sense of humor and enjoyed practical jokes. He was a dear brother and uncle, and he will be missed. He is survived by his sisters Carolyn (Garth) Corrie and Rose Hathaway of Big Rapids, Anne McHugh of Morley, Margaret Bulgarella and Elsie (Sam) Guiliano of Grand Rapids; sisters-in-law Erma Bechaz , Jane Bechaz and Elaine Baumunk of Big Rapids; and many, many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, his brothers Oswald and Joseph Bechaz of Big Rapids, his twin brother George Bechaz of Big Rapids and his sisters Inez Straub of Rodney and Ida Graboskey of Big Rapids. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 11:00 a.m. Thursday, July 2, 2009 at St. Mary Church in Big Rapids with Father Lam T. Le officiating. Interment will be at Mount Carmel Cemetery in Big Rapids with military honors under the auspices of American Legion Post #98 Firing Squad. Visitation will be at the Daggett-Gilbert Funeral Home in Big Rapids on Wednesday, July 1, 2009 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Memorials may be made to Am-Vets Post #1941 in Big Rapids. Condolences may be left online at www.daggettgilbertfuneralhome.com