Alma Hickel, center, is surrounded by family on a newly dedicated bench at Sankey Elmwood Park in Colusa on May 9, recognizing her more than 70 years of service to the community. Photo courtesy of the Catholic Ladies Relief Society.COLUSA, CA (MPG) – For more than 70 years, Alma Hickel has shaped the lives of families across Colusa through quiet service, steady leadership and a lifelong commitment to her community.
Family, friends and community members gathered Monday, May 9, at Sankey Elmwood Park to honor Alma Hickel, recognizing more than seven decades of service to Colusa, her church and generations of local families.
At 99, Hickel’s life reflects a long record of volunteer work, leadership and care for others. Her service began in 1953 when she joined the Catholic Ladies Relief Society of Our Lady of Lourdes Parish, where she supported charitable efforts and helped advance the group’s mission of faith, hope and charity. Over the years, she became a lifetime member and served in several leadership roles, including three terms as president, along with time as recording secretary and board member.
“Alma has dedicated her life to this community, our church and hundreds of children and their families,” the Catholic Ladies Relief Society said in prepared remarks. “She has always been willing to assist wherever there is a need and has shown God’s love in the lives she has touched.”
Her service extended beyond the church. In 1966, Hickel helped establish the Colusa Westside 4-H Club and served as its key leader for 10 years. She organized meetings, recruited project leaders and guided youth through community service and competitions. The club grew to 83 members and 22 adult leaders and earned recognition at the county, regional and state levels.
“One person does not accomplish this by themselves. It is working with others for a common good that gives many rewards as you volunteer,” the organization said, quoting Hickel during the ceremony.
Hickel also spent 35 years operating a day care from her home, caring for hundreds of children. She focused on early learning and social development and helped prepare children for school. She retired from her day care in 1995, but many of the families she served have remained connected to her.
“Alma made sure the children learned, had fun and knew they were special and loved,” the Catholic Ladies Relief Society said.
Many of the children in her care spent time at Sankey Elmwood Park, adding meaning to the site chosen to recognize her. Friends and family said her commitment to service carried into her home, where she and her husband, Jim, raised five children.
In 2005, Hickel was named Woman of the Year by the Diocesan Council of Catholic Women and received a special award from the Bishop’s Office. She was also recognized by Assemblyman John Garamendi for her community service.
“Alma continues to show compassion and love for her community,” the organization said.
The tribute took form in a bench installed at the corner of Third and Webster Streets, offering a place for reflection tied to her years of service. The Catholic Ladies Relief Society led the effort, with support from the Knights of Columbus of Our Lady of Lourdes Parish.
“Alma is so deserving after all she has done for our community,” said Maryann LaGrande, president of the Catholic Ladies Relief Society.
LaGrande also thanked the City of Colusa and City Manager Jesse Cain for assisting with installation.