James Arthur Bickel

James Arthur Bickel, 87, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, passed away on Thursday, February 13, 2025 at Parkview Hospital surrounded by his loving family. James was born January 18, 1938, in Fort Wayne, Indiana, son to the late Arthur and Helen (Dunderman) Bickel. He worked as a Cost Analyst, retiring from Navistar after 51 years of service. James was a member of Knights of Columbus, Navistar Retiree Organization, Harvester Homecoming Committee and Bishop Luers Bingo Club. He was a loyal Notre Dame fan, an avid golfer, and enjoyed collecting trains and antiques. James was a devout Catholic and dedicated his life in service of the Lord. He was the head usher at St. Peter’s Church for over 30 years, attended daily mass, and often led the congregation in praying the rosary. He met the love of his life, Marlene in 1956 in Willshire, OH. After a six year courtship they were married in 1961 until her death in 2008. Their 47 year love affair produced six children and eight grandchildren. Fondly known as “Papa,” he was dedicated to his family and never missed an event. James was the quintessential gentleman; his kind, humble and generous spirit touched the lives of all those he met. He is survived by his current wife, Madeline Bickel of Fort Wayne, Indiana; children, Christina A. Miller of Woodburn, Indiana, Theresa H. Bickel of Fort Wayne, Indiana, Stephen A. (Tammy) Bickel of Fort Wayne, Indiana, Mary R. Bickel of Fort Wayne, Indiana, and Michael F. (Karen) Bickel of Fort Wayne, Indiana; grandchildren, Bryant J. (Dakota) Bickel of Ennis, Texas, Rachel M. Miller of Woodburn, Indiana, Zachary J. Miller of Fort Wayne, Indiana, Megan T. Miller of Woodburn, Indiana, Jacob S. (Kristin) Bickel of Fort Wayne, Indiana, Joshua A. Bickel of Fort Wayne, Indiana, Olivia A. Bickel of Fort Wayne, Indiana, and Addison M. Bickel of Fort Wayne, Indiana; sister, Mary Ann Ulz of Libertyville, Illinois; brother, Paul (Lauri) Bickel of Eau Claire, Wisconsin; and several nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his first wife, Deanna Marlene (Marbaugh) Bickel; son, Joseph L. Bickel; brother, Tom Bickel; and brother-in-law, Conrad Ulz. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Thursday, February 20, 2025, at 11:00 AM at St. Peter's Catholic Church, 518 East Dewald Street, Fort Wayne, Indiana 46803, with visitation one hour prior at church. Visitation for James will also be held Wednesday, February 19, 2025, from 2:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Klaehn, Fahl & Melton Funeral Home, 6424 Winchester Road, Fort Wayne, Indiana 46819. Burial will be at Catholic Cemetery. Contributions in James' memory may be made to St. Mary's Soup Kitchen, Allen County Police Department, or Riley Children's Hospital. Please visit. www.klaehnfahlmeltonfunerals.com to leave condolences.