Edward Cleo Lechler

Edward Cleo Lechler, age 87, of Wharton died Friday, December 25, 2015, at a Sugarland hospital. He was born on November 26, 1928 in McGregor, Texas, a son of the late Joseph and Clara Ruth Marshall Lechler. Edward was raised in the McGregor area and graduated from McGregor High School. He obtained his Bachelors degree from Mississippi State University. He married Dotty Lechler on August 6, 1950 at the First Baptist Church in Wharton, she preceded him in death on August 22, 2015. Edward worked as a football coach for 15 years at programs such as Bellville, Tyler John Tyler, Stephen F. Austin University and Wharton ISD. He later was a principal at Sivells Elementary and Wharton Junior High School for 15 years. Edward enjoyed traveling, camping, fishing and hunting, even getting his deer this year. The family logged many miles following their children, and grandchildren in their athletic events. In addition to his parents and wife, he was preceded in death by his brothers, Elmer and Billy Lechler. Following cremation, memorial services will be held on Wednesday, January 13, 2016 at 1pm at the Chapel of Wharton Funeral Home with Mr. Tom Guffey officiating. Survivors include his sons, Dale Lechler and wife, Pamela of Hamshire, and Jamie Lechler and wife, Barbara of Brenham, daughter, Jana Ryder and husband, Morris of West Columbia, grandchildren, Shane and wife, Erin, Derek and wife, Alexa, Madlynn, Ben and wife, Kristina, Blake and wife, Jenna Chad and wife, Genna and Lindsey, great grandchildren, Bailey, Emerson, Jagger, Jett, Julia, Kaylynn, Blayne, Reese, and Luke. His twin brother, Edwin Lechler and wife, Margaret of McGregor and sister, Francis Younce and husband, Eddie of Oglesby, along with many nieces, nephews and friends. Funeral services are under the direction of the Wharton Funeral Home. Condolences may be left at www.whartonfuneralhome.com.