Evelyn Bechtel, a lifelong resident of Burlington who grew up in Bible Grove, Missouri, has cherished an enduring admiration for Elvis Presley since his rise to fame in 1956. Her nieces, Connie Dyer and Candy Mueller, arranged a memorable birthday celebration for her 99th birthday on January 8, coinciding with what would have been Elvis's 90th. The party was filled with balloons, flowers, cupcakes, and even an Elvis impersonator who entertained guests with song requests. Evelyn, adorned in a tiara and a purple sash that read "It’s My 99th Birthday," expressed her delight at the thoughtful gathering.

Beyond her love for Elvis, Evelyn has lived a vibrant life filled with music and dance. She fondly recalls her days as a star basketball player at Bible Grove High School and her 46-year career at Midwest Biscuit (now Shearer’s), where she developed new flavors in the lab. Traveling extensively, Evelyn kissed the Blarney Stone twice and danced with Irish dancers. However, her heart belonged most to her late husband, Charles J. “Ivory Chuck” Bechtel, a renowned ragtime and country western pianist. Ivory Chuck composed several songs, including tributes to Evelyn, and together they performed at various venues, from radio shows to weddings. Their partnership was not only musical but also deeply personal; they met when Evelyn hired Chuck to play at a school event, leading to their marriage in 1955. Despite the passage of time, Evelyn continues to cherish these memories and remains active, embodying the spirit of resilience and joy.

Evelyn's life story is one of passion and dedication. Her love for music and dance, both through her own performances and those of her late husband, reflects a life well-lived. Even now, as she enjoys her golden years at RidgeView Assisted Living, Evelyn's enthusiasm and zest for life inspire all around her. Her legacy of creativity, perseverance, and unwavering admiration for the arts serves as a testament to the power of living fully and embracing every moment with grace and positivity.