William Donald "Bill" Lectka Sr

Athens, GA - William Donald Lectka, Sr., 93, died on January 31, 2012. Born in Middleville, Michigan, he moved to Georgia in 1976. From 1936 to 1940 he served in the U.S. Navy on board the hydrographic survey ships USS Nokomis and USS Bushnell in Central and South American waters. He served proudly again during World War II in the South Pacific aboard the USS Queens. He began his civilian service with the U.S. Navy in the Hydrographic Center of the Defense Mapping Agency as a cartographer. Through his pioneering efforts and expertise, cartographic scribing was established as a standard procedure within that Center. Throughout his career, his professional efforts contributed materially to the support of surface and air navigators throughout the world. Mr. Lectka retired in 1973.
Mr. Lectka devoted much of his early adulthood to coaching Little League and American Legion baseball teams in District Heights, Maryland. He was an avid sportsman his entire life and accomplished at every sport he tried, from archery in his younger years to golf and bowling in his senior years. In the early 90's he won the Georgia State Seniors Bowling All-Star championship and advanced to represent Georgia in the prestigious ABC Seniors Tournament. Mr. Lectka was a proud member of the Swift Association and enjoyed owning his own plane and flying it for many years.
Mr. Lectka is preceded in death by his wife of almost 70 years, Nellie Frances Adams, and his daughter, Janet. He is survived by his daughter Joan Price and husband David of Union Point, GA, a son, William Donald, Jr., and wife Patricia who reside in Wales, many grandchildren and friends.
The family will receive friends at Oconee Chapel Funeral Directors, Friday, February 3, 2012 from 2:00 until 3:00 PM. Graveside services will follow at 3:00 PM at Oconee Memorial Park.
Oconee Chapel Funeral Directors is in charge of arrangements.