Hilda Maria Bickel

Hilda Maria Bickel, 97 of Indianapolis, died peacefully on January 6, 2026. She was born June 7, 1928 in Puerto Rico to the late Juan and Maria (Ojeda) Marrero. Hilda received her bachelor’s degree in science from Universitatis Portoricensis in Puerto Rico and went on to receive a master’s degree in Master of Arts in Education from St. Francis College in Ft. Wayne. She married Robert (Bob) D. Bickel on May 10, 1952, and he preceded her in death August 10, 2013, after 61 years of marriage. Hilda began her career teaching in Ft. Wayne, Indiana before moving to Gary, Indiana where she was a middle school teacher. She was the first teacher involved in a nationwide pilot program teaching non-English-speaking children English. She traveled to Washington D.C. to advocate in the favor of funding and expanding this important program. She remained an educator for 18 years before retiring. Hilda loved serving God through her church life at Fishers United Methodist Church where she was active in Bible studies, the 50 plus group and the PEO Women’s Organization which raises money for women’s education worldwide. Hilda was an avid reader throughout her life, immersing herself in various subject areas. In addition to her intellectual pursuits, Hilda led a life of public service, constantly devoting herself to assist the communities in which she resided throughout her life. Hilda loved to garden and loved flowers. She spent most days outside tending to her plants and flowers which gave her time to meditate and enjoy the blessings of life. Hilda took great pride in her family, which she loved with all of her being. She is survived by her children, Rob Bickel (wife Kathy) and Lissa Campbell (husband Brian), grandchildren, Matthew Bickel and Lucy Campbell Morrison (husband Kyle) and sister Aury Nagy. A Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be held Saturday, January 17, 2026, at 11:30 a.m. at Fishers United Methodist Church, 9690 E. 116th St. Fishers, IN, with visitation from 10:30-11:30. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Fishers United Methodist Church “Come to Me” Food Pantry and/or the Fishers United Methodist Church Choir. Arrangements are entrusted to Shirley Brothers Fishers-Castleton Chapel. www.shirleybrothers.com

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Hilda Maria Bickel

June 7, 1928 - January 6, 2026