Bonnie C. Bickel

Bonnie C. Bickel, 83, Akron, passed away surrounded by her family at 10:45 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 10, 2023, at Parkview Randallia Hospital of Fort Wayne.

She was born on Oct. 17, 1939, in Griffith, and was raised by her mother Helen (McColley) Wentzel. She married on Nov. 24, 1956, in Akron, to Jerry K. Bickel, who preceded her in death on May 29, 2020.

She attended Akron High School and was very proud to be from the town of Akron. The community’s support and love was so important to her. She lived nearly her entire life in Akron. She attended the Akron Church of God for many years. She was a former member of the Las Donas Club, Red Hat Society, and enjoyed meeting with her friends over a cup of coffee. She especially loved working for the Akron/Mentone News, where she was secretary.

She was a dedicated wife, mother and grandmother. She loved her Florida vacations with her sisters. She collected Precious Moments and enjoyed using the computer. She and Jerry enjoyed going all over the area together and eating at many restaurants.

She is survived by her daughters: Sherry (Carl) Dewey, Peru; and Shelly Bickel, Akron; son: Jerry E. (Jamie) Bickel, Pierceton; grandchildren: Kelly, Gordon, Bonnie Kaye, Jason, and Jenelle; eight great-grandchildren; sisters: Shirley Bickel, Akron; Patti Nelson, Warsaw; and Kathy Rocchio, Kokomo; and sister-in-law: Ruth Ann Funk.

Bonnie was preceded in death by her mother; her husband of 64 years: Jerry; grandson: Josey James Bickel; and her beloved Yorkie: Suzie.

The funeral service will take place at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, Aug. 15, at Hartzler Funeral Home, 305 W. Rochester St., Akron, with Pastor Mandy Nellans officiating.

The interment will take place in the Akron Cemetery, Akron, next to her husband.

Visitation hours will be from 4-7 p.m. Monday, Aug. 14, at Hartzler Funeral Home, Akron.

Memorial contributions can be made in her memory to the Akron Church of God.

Hartzler Funeral Home, Akron, is handling arrangements.