Evelyn Mary Bichsel

Evelyn Mary Bichsel, 90, of New Philadelphia, passed away Thursday, March 5, 2015 at her home following a period of declining health.

Born in Fairfield Township on June 28, 1924, she was the daughter of the late George H. and Martha (Albaugh) Beans.

After graduating from Midvale High School in 1942, she attended Beckwith Business School in New Philadelphia. Then, Evelyn continued her formal education completing her associate’s degree from the Tiffin Business College.

Her faith was nurtured throughout her lifetime in the First Presbyterian Church in New Philadelphia where she served as a deacon from 1966 – 68 and again from 1976 – 78 and trustee from 1972-74, and was a member of the Women’s Association. Evelyn also gave of her time and talent to the Oldtown Valley Homemakers organization, and the New Philadelphia Band Boosters where she served as treasurer. She enjoyed party politics, and served in several capacities of the Tuscarawas County Republican Party. Additionally, Evelyn served as president of the Tuscarawas County Homemakers Council in 1967, and continued her membership thereafter.

Evelyn always listened and responded to the needs of her family and friends. She kept her cool and provided practical guidance. At a time when it seemed that all hope was lost, it was Evelyn who brought things into perspective. Her lifelong friendships were of great importance to her. She always enjoyed the social time and a good meal with the Goshen Dairy girls and her Midvale high school classmates. She enjoyed following the activities of family whether it be a sporting event, watching the Marching Quaker Band, or attending the Ohio State Fair. Evelyn was a person who enjoyed staying active so if she had wheels Evelyn was not at home.

Evelyn married the late William J. Bichsel, Sr. who preceded her in passing on May 19, 1965.

Evelyn will be deeply missed by her daughter, Carol A. (Mark Preusser) Bichsel of New Philadelphia. She is also survived by her step-sons, William J. (Patricia) Bichsel, Jr, and Jerry N. (Sandra) Bichsel, both of New Philadelphia; grandchildren Lisa (David) Munsell, Alison Laughlin, and Kyle Laughlin; step-grandchildren, William (Dru) Bichsel III, Marybeth (Ray) Markley, Brian (Chris) Bichsel, Mark (Sandy) Bichsel, Barbara (Don) Ferren, Michael Bichsel, Kandace Bichsel, Kimberly (Brad) Hillyer, Beth (Mark) Tomson, Heidi (Rob) Frutchey, Sherry Bichsel, Erich (Kari) Bichsel, Christian (Jillian) Bichsel, Nancy Foster, Anne (Bill) Miller, William (Shelley) Foster, and John (Anne) Foster; 47 step-great-grandchildren; numerous step-great-great-grandchildren; her siblings, Robert (Phyllis) Beans and John Beans, both of New Philadelphia and Flora E. Jackson of Naples, FL; her sisters-in-law, Ruby Beans and Mary Ellen Beans, both of New Philadelphia; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

In addition to her parents and husband, Evelyn was preceded in death by her brothers, George Beans and Roy D. Beans; her step-daughter, Jeane Bichsel Foster; and her step-grandsons, Robert Foster III and Hans Christopher Bichsel.

A service celebrating Evelyn’s life will be held in the First Presbyterian Church at New Philadelphia on Saturday, March 7, 2015 beginning at 11 a.m. with Rev. Mark Unrue and Steve Jenkins officiating. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service in the church. Burial will follow in Evergreen Burial Park at New Philadelphia.

Memorial contributions in Evelyn’s memory may be directed to either Community Hospice of Tuscarawas County, 716 Commercial Ave SW, New Philadelphia, Ohio 44663, or First Presbyterian Church, 217 East High Avenue, New Philadelphia, Ohio 44663.