The Legacy of Earl "Butch" Mac Lechler: A Love That Endures

As I began this blog, the details began to overlap. They all seem so important. Please bear with me as I start the "art" of summarizing. Clearly, that is NOT my strong suit.

A Deep Thinker from the Start

As far back as I can remember, I have been a deep thinker. I have always been overly concerned about the well-being of others—even bugs. Yes, bugs! I vividly recall roller skating my little heart out in the basement and rolling over a bug. I was paralyzed with concern. I instantly sat down, making sure my oversized white roller skates, accessorized with extra crispy, bright pink glitter shoelaces, were not in motion.

Then, thoughts started to flood my mind. What about the bug's parents? Siblings? Grandparents? I realized I was responsible for the heartache the bug's family would feel when they discovered their brother Lenny. LITERALLY!

This story illustrates the traits that shaped me into the person I am today. I am still that little girl with the same heart, but I no longer cry over bugs. Life has taught me that the loss of loved ones can overshadow such small worries. Grief is the price we pay for great love, and it’s a price I will gladly pay over and over again, even if it’s devastating.

Family Foundations

Let me transition this blog towards something uplifting. Join me as I delve into the cornerstone of my family. This is the story of my primary family: my parents and my brother.

My dad was born and raised on a farm outside of Sunbury, Ohio. He was handsome, ornery, and athletic. According to my mom, he was also “a bit cocky.” With an insatiable need for speed, he raced cars, then horses, and back to cars until the day he passed away.

Oh yes, and by the way, his passing is the reason I am able to draw. There’s a lot more to that story, and I look forward to sharing it with you. For now, let’s focus on my dad: Earl “Butch” Mac Lechler.

A Legacy of Love

My dad's life was full of vibrant stories and memories. He had an adventurous spirit that he passed on to all of us. His love for life was infectious. Family gatherings were more than just events; they were celebrations of life itself. We would share stories, laugh until we cried, and enjoy each other's company.

But with all the joyous memories, there were moments of sorrow too. My dad passed away two years before my daughter, Sydney, gave birth to her first little girl, Lynnae. It’s bittersweet because Sydney and dad shared a special bond. Lynnae, his first grandchild, instantly became his little buddy. The two were inseparable, especially when it came to enjoying popsicles together.

The Importance of Family

Family is the bedrock of who we are. It shapes our values and beliefs. My dad's influence is still palpable within our family. He taught us the meaning of love, sacrifice, and perseverance. Each lesson is a thread woven into the fabric of our lives.

Even in his absence, my dad’s love continues to guide us. It teaches us to cherish every moment. The memories may fade, but the love remains. Through stories, laughs, and photos, he is forever etched in our hearts.

Reflections and Future Blogs

As I reflect on these memories, I realize the importance of sharing them. Each post will delve deeper into different aspects of my family's story. The next blog will showcase subjects one by one, building a rich tapestry of our family's heritage.

In closing, I invite you to follow along. Let’s explore the beautiful legacy left by my dad, Earl “Butch” Mac Lechler. His influence continues to resonate within us. We carry forward the lessons learned and the love shared. Life is too precious not to celebrate it, so let’s embark on this journey together.

---wix---