Evelyn Louise Bickel

Evelyn Louise Bickel, 86, passed away peacefully July 28, 2025, in Fort Wayne. Born April 13, 1939, in Hannibal, Mo., she was the daughter of C.L. and Grace Gottmann. Evelyn married David Bickel in 1959 in North Manchester, Ind. Soon, they relocated to Fort Wayne, where they spent 61 happy years before David's passing in 2020.

Evelyn was a lifelong active member of Lincolnshire Church of the Brethren. Her gift of socializing enabled her to relate to those from all walks of life, not only at the church, but in her roles as an Avon salesperson, Brentwood Elementary School special education aide, volunteer, neighbor, friend, and fellow Lutheran Life Villages resident. Her curious nature helped get others to come out of their shells and converse with her. Did we mention that she liked to talk?

Evelyn delighted in writing and receiving notes and cards with her impressively long list of friends. She was quick to laugh and make new friends.

Evelyn loved to gather with her family. She treasured her daughter Cara (Steve) Slosarek; son Darren (Rose) Bickel; and her three beloved grandchildren, Grace Bickel, Brett Slosarek, and Emma Bickel. She cherished her brother-in-law, Dan (Barb) Bickel; niece Chris (Fred) Haseman and their children Nicole and Dylan; and cousins Kay Larsen and Tina Zogott. She was preceded in death by her parents, C.L. and Grace Gottmann; her sister, Judy Talley; and her nephew, Jim Talley.

Family will be available for visiting from 2 to 4 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 2, at Lincolnshire Church of the Brethren, 6404 S. Calhoun, Fort Wayne. Her celebration of life service will follow at 4 p.m.

Memorials to:

• Lincolnshire Church of the Brethren (http://www.lincnotes.org/)

• Christian radio station WBCL (https://www.wbcl.org/make-a-difference/donate).