Alfred I. Betcher, age 94 of Buffalo, passed away December 30, 2018. He was born in Minneapolis, Minnesota on November 16, 1924, the son of Frederick William Betcher and Loretta Marie Mechenick.
He was baptized at St. Steven’s Catholic Church and confirmed at Holy Rosary Catholic Church in Minneapolis, Minnesota. He graduated from South High School and went to Dunwoody to become a certified electrician.
In 1942, he enlisted in the Army Air force and was a flight engineer on B-17 airplanes during World War II. He spent 7 months in Italy and put in 51 missions with his unit. He received 3 Bronze Star Medals, Good Conduct Medal, Air Medal, and 2 Oak Leaf Cluster Medals.
After proudly serving his country, Alfred was united in marriage on December 23, 1944 to Hazel Myrtle Bunnell in Amarillo, Texas in a Methodist Pastor’s home. Together they raised four sons.
He was very active as a Boy Scout Leader in his early years while his sons were growing up. Earning his Wood Badge, and helping train new leaders. He also earned the Silver Scout and Lamb Award.
In Alfred’s later years he was a member of the Lion’s Club serving in many categories; he was the Secretary to the District Governor, President, Secretary, and was Gambling Manager. He enjoyed camping and traveling, but spent much of his free time fishing as much as he could. Most importantly, he cherished making memories with his family and friends.
Al is preceded in death by his wife, Hazel; son, Bruce; parents, Frederick and Loretta; sister, Dolores Field; and brother, Richard Betcher.
He is survived by his sons, Dr. Richard (Vivian), Bryan (Wanda), and Jon (Ruth); daughter-in-law, Cheryl Betcher; grandchildren, Brenna Wundram, Brandon Betcher, Ryan Betcher, Cara Betcher, Alyssa Betcher, Jennifer Beuch, and Judy Betcher; 6 great-grandchildren; and many other relatives and friends.
Memorial service will be held Friday, January 4, 2019 at 10 AM with visitation one-hour prior at Zion Lutheran Church, 1200 Hwy 25 S., Buffalo, MN. Interment at Forest Hill Cemetery in Owatonna, MN.
Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to The Peterson Chapel of Buffalo. Online condolences for the family may be directed to www.thepetersonchapel.com
Dear Betcher Family:
My condolences on the passing of your father and grandfather, Al. I was pleased to know him through the Buffalo Lions and he was a frequent visitor to the Buffalo Library (where I work) in years past. He was a good friend and was happy to serve our community.
My thoughts and prayers are with Al’s family. Al was a neighbor of mine in Buffalo for about 10 years. He always took the time to chat with me when I was in the yard while he was taking his dog for a walk. He was always nice and courteous and he took the time to see how my construction jobs were going.
Mr. Betcher was a favorite customer of mine at Buffalo Books. Every Christmas he would come in with a list of his grandchildren and their ages, wanting recommendations for just the right gifts. He rarely cracked a smile, but it was clear that his family was very important to him. Rest In Peace, Mr. Betcher.