With the flag lowered to half-mast, a crowd gathered at the Kincaid Park on Sunday, June 5, to dedicate the park to Pietro “Pete” Antonio Becchelli (June 6, 1949 – Dec. 21, 2021), who spent much of his time helping the park and the community. The plaque reads: “Born in Taylorville, but raised in Kincaid across from this park, only leaving to proudly serve in the Air Force during the Vietnam War. Pete retired from Peabody Coal Mines and started his excavating business, Pete’s Excavating. He volunteered countless hours to his community and helping maintain the park, planting trees and putting up Purple Martin bird houses. Pete rarely turned down anyone that asked for help. He was known for helping widowed ladies in town with whatever they needed and sharing goodies from his garden he loved to grow. He had a great sense of humor but never gave the young guys a break, trying to teach them what is right and about good work ethics. He left a large hole in the hearts of his wife, family and community. His huge smile will definitely be missed.”
Elyse Clayton / Breeze Courier Photographer
