Honor Mission
James T. Lechner
US Marine Corps
Cold War Era Veteran
and Firefighter
Churchville, NY - 05/06-07/2025
***UPDATED 05 May 2025 - 15:45 Hrs***
The Primary Staging Date, Time and Location
has been changed. Please see all highlighted
changes shown below.
Mission applies to the following Region(s):
Region 1, Region 2
About the Mission:
The family of James Thomas Lechner has requested Patriot Guard Rider participation in his funeral services. James, 86, passed away peacefully on May 2, 2025.
Born in Rochester, NY, James graduated from Aquinas Institute. He enlisted in the United States Marine Corps and served during the Cold War era, from 1956 – 1960 as an Aircraft Electrician. He earned the rank of Corporal (E-4) and for his service, was awarded a Good Conduct Medal.
After his military service, James began his career at Eastman Kodak. After he retired from Kodak, he dedicated the rest of his life to volunteering and serving his community. He served many decades as a volunteer firefighter with the Chili Fire Department including time as a Battalion Chief and President. He also served as a member of the Chili Library Board for over 27 years. He was dedicated to military veterans and spent 18 years serving along with his daughter Amy, with the New York Warrior Alliance in support of wounded troops and Gold Star families. His service to veterans also included weekly visits to the Canandaigua VA Hospital.
Portions of the above narrative are contained in James' obituary which is available for viewing online by clicking here
Primary Staging Date and Staging Time:
05/06/2025 at 03:45 pm
Staging Location:
Leo M. Bean and Sons Funeral Home
2771 Chili Ave.
Rochester, NY 14624
Lead Ride Captain and Contact Info:
John P. McMullen
585-943-4964
Special Information:
We will stand an honorable flag line for arrival of guests at the funeral home. Visitation is from 4:00 - 8:00 pm, but any time you can spend standing the flag line will be very much appreciated by the family.
Please bring your clean 3x5 American or Marine Corps Flag. Weather forecast calling for possible wet conditions so dress accordingly.
Is there a Second Stage to this Mission?
yes
Secondary Staging Date and Staging Time:
05/07/2025 at 11:15am
Staging Location:
Open Door Baptist Church.
350 Chili Scottsville Rd.
Churchville, NY 14428
Lead Ride Captain and Contact Info:
Bob Harder
585-802-2288
Special Information:
Following the church service, PGR will escort to Holy Sepulchre Cemetery for interment services.
Is there a Second Stage to this Mission?
no
Submitted by:
BOB HARDER
rs 05/05
