Deborah Dorine Bechtol

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Deborah Dorine Bechtol, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. Deb left us unexpectedly on August 20, 2026, at Winter Haven Hospital, leaving behind a legacy of love, kindness, and creativity that will be cherished forever. Born on June 16, 1951, in Paulding, Ohio, to Roger and Dorothy Schlegel, Deb was a vibrant spirit from the start. She graduated from Antwerp High School in 1969 and pursued her passion for beauty and style by earning a cosmetology degree. With her entrepreneurial spirit, she opened her own salon in Antwerp, Ohio. Ambitious and curious, Deb later attended schooling in Toledo to expand her horizons into import/export, working in Hicksville, Ohio, before retiring from TKN Industries in 2016. After retirement, she embraced the warmth of Florida's winters, where she spent her final years. Deb shared 35 wonderful years with Wayne Huss, the love of her life, until his passing in 2018. Their bond was a testament to enduring love and companionship. Deb's family was her pride and joy, and she is survived by her children: Tana (Steven) Selzer and Steven (Angie) Bechtol. Her siblings, Lyle Kevin "Joe" (Paula) Schlegel and Jerald "Jake" Schlegel, will forever cherish the memories they shared with her, as will her close friends, Robert Winhover and Mary Sergent. A proud grandmother, Deb delighted in the lives and accomplishments of her grandchildren: Kiersten (Greg) Orozco, Josh (Manda) Selzer, John (Emily) Selzer, and Dani Selzer. Her great-grandchildren, Eden, Oliver, Leo, Finnigan, Ivy, and Piper, were the light of her life, and she followed their adventures with joy and admiration. Deb was a woman of many talents, especially in crafting and sewing. Her creativity knew no bounds, and she could transform any vision into reality. Her love for quilting led her to actively participate in Quilts of Valor, where she crafted quilts for veterans. A lifelong member of the Lutheran church, Deb's faith guided her throughout her life. She was also a valued member of the Winter Haven Moose Lodge, where she made numerous friends. Her passion for life extended to her hobbies, which included sewing, crocheting, knitting, and crafting of all kinds. Recently, she found joy in sharing her creations through a booth in Lakeland, Florida. Deb's love of sports was evident as she cheered enthusiastically for her beloved Ohio State Buckeyes and Tampa Buccaneers. Her laughter and spirited commentary will be missed by all who were lucky enough to watch a game with her. Deb's presence was like a warm embrace, welcoming and accepting. She never met a stranger, and her ability to connect with people was truly remarkable. Her love for her family was all-encompassing, and her big heart was open to all who needed comfort or friendship. Though the funeral will be private, we invite those who wish to honor Deb's memory to consider making a donation to the Polk County Bully Project, a cause close to her heart. As we say goodbye to Deb, we take solace in the words shared by her family: "Mothers never really die, they just keep the house up in the sky, they polish the sun by day and light the stars that shine at night, keep the moonbeams silvery bright and in the heavenly home above they wait to welcome those they love." Deborah Dorine Bechtol will forever be remembered for her warmth, talent, and unyielding love. Her spirit lives on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.