PLATTSBURGH - Alan D. Bechard 76 of Mohican Lane, passed away peacefully with his family by his side on July 3, 2024, at CVPH Medical Center. He was born on May 23, 1948 in Plattsburgh, NY, the son of the late Antonio and Myrtle (Longtin) Bechard.

After graduation in 1967, Alan received his associate degree in Horticulture from Cobbleskill. He then attended SUNY Brockport to obtain a bachelor's degree in biology, and an Elementary Education Certificate.

Being legally blind since childhood, Alan faced many challenges, yet he accomplished so much in his life. As a young man Alan was president of the local 4-H Club and loved entering his vegetables in the Clinton County Fair. Alan was responsible for starting the genealogy research for the Bechard Family Tree. Alan was very active in the Boy Scouts of America. He also was active in the Scouter Stamp business and the Eagle Scout Board. He received the Silver Beaver Award for distinguished service in the Boy Scouts of America.

After graduating from college Alan worked as a ground's keeper at SUNY Brockport, and then purchased Plant 'n Grow in Brockport. Alan also taught Earth Science at Saranac School and worked for the Office of the Aging in Plattsburgh. He participated in the Northeast Radio Reading Service for the blind for many years.

Alan served as an Ombudsman for Clinton and Essex County. Later becoming an Assistant State Ombudsman for NY in Albany. Alan loved gardening, stamp collecting, audio books and most of all he loved being with his family.

Alan was a devoted member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints since 1978.

Survivors include his sisters Karen (Bechard) Hornell and Gayle Bechard Woodruff (Kevin) and his dear nephew, Philip Carpenter who assisted with his care for many years. Alan also leaves behind a nephew, Aaron Camp (Julie);  nieces Shannon Lopez, (Robert), Casey Dalcin (Clarence), Megan Guay (Andre'), as well as several great-nephews who he admired.

A service will be held at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, 26 Dennis Avenue, Plattsburgh. Viewing will begin at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, July 9th, followed by the service at 11:00 a.m. Burial will immediately follow at St Joseph's Church cemetery, Coopersville.

In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to the Parkinson's Foundation.org.

To share a memory or condolence with the family, please visit www.rwwalkerfh.com.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the R.W. Walker Funeral Home, 69 Court Street, Plattsburgh, NY.