Charles Bachtel

Bachtel, Charles Leigh
Charles (Chuck) Bachtel of Taos and Rio Rancho NM peacefully left this earth on July 26, 2015 at the age of 61. Chuck Star as he was known from his early years on the drums always had a way of making people around him laugh. Chuck did not ask much from anyone, he simply loved spending time with the absolute love of his life, Bernadette his wife of 39 years. The simple pleasures Chuck enjoyed was going places and spending time with Bernadette in their RV. He looked forward to bringing the car he grew up with and kept for the last 42 years to the Taos Annual Autumn Run. That is where he would reminisce with old friends and meet new ones. He will be remembered for his playful nature and love of friends and family.

Chuck always had a passion for anything motorized. He could tear apart any motor and bring it back to life. He restored a classic 1957 Chris Craft boat that he and Bernadette loved to cruise around in. He rode and raced motorcycles for many years, but drag racing the old 52 Chevy was one of his most passionate hobbies.

Chuck's two grandchildren Emma and Carson Bachtel were the rays of sunshine that brightened his most recent days. Carson was his “little buddy”.

Chuck graduated from Taos High School in 1972. After high school Chuck joined the US Army where he served in Korea. After the Army Chuck came back to NM and went to school in Albuquerque in 1975. He and Bernadette were married in 1976.

Chuck was preceded in death by his father Dail Bachtel. He is survived by his mother Margaret Bachtel of Taos, his wife Bernadette, children Brian and Michael, grand children Emma and Carson of Rio Rancho NM, brother Mike (Patty) Bachtel of Taos, brother Douglas (Nancy) Bachtel of Taos, sister Dawn (Gilles) Pumain of Chandler AZ, and many relatives and friends.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to Engineers Without Borders New London Chapter. Chuck's son Brian is active in designing and implementing a water distribution supply system for remote farming communities in Nicaragua.  For more information and to make a tax deductible contribution please visit the website
https://ssl.charityweb.net/ewbusa/pfp/ewbnlcyearenddrive.htm  

To view information or leave a condolence, please visit www.danielsfuneral.com  
Daniels Family Funeral Services
4310 Sara Road SE
Rio Rancho, NM 87124
505-892-9920