Obituary: Peter Becherl

Peter Becherl

Peter Lynn Becherl, 77, of Montrose, Colorado, died September 23, 2023, at home following a long illness.

Pete was born in Sharon, North Dakota, on January 31, 1946, to Theodore and Burnice (Myer) Becherl. He grew up on the family farm near McHenry, N.D., and graduated from McHenry High School in 1964.

He married Louise Quam in 1967. In 1969, he graduated from Valley City State College majoring in mathematics and minoring in chemistry and physics.

Pete taught high school math and was principal at McHenry High School for five years. His former students say he was an excellent math teacher. During this time he also took over the family farm.

Pete served on the McHenry School Board, McHenry Volunteer Fire Department, Binford Elevator Board, Paradise Township Board and Eddy County Water Board. He was a member of Our Savior’s Lutheran Church in McHenry and served on the church council.

In 2004, Pete and Louise retired from farming and moved to Montrose to be close to their children and grandchildren. He and Louise joined Zion Lutheran Church in Montrose.

Pete worked for a cabinet shop and a machine shop and enjoyed spending his time doing woodworking. He loved visiting neighbors and friends and sightseeing around North Dakota. His happiest times were spent with his family.

Pete is survived by his wife of 55 years, Louise; daughter, Anita and husband Shane Brown of Montrose; son, Brian and wife Angela of Montrose; granddaughters, Shaylla and Mikaylla; step-grandson, Montana; step-granddaughter, Chamisa; great-grandson, Paxton and step-great-grandson, Johnny. Pete is also survived by three sisters: Lyla Anderson of Spring Valley, Illinois; Marjorie Jensen of Bismark, N.D., and Peggy Trosen of Shakopee, Minnesota.

Pete was preceded in death by his parents and a nephew, Preston Jensen.

Burial of ashes will be in Bethlehem Cemetery in McHenry, N.D., at a later date.

Arrangements by Crippin Funeral Home, Montrose, Colo.