Hilda Mekel

Hilda (nee Amoroso) passed away on May 4, 2024. She was the beloved wife of the Honorable Edward G. Mekel for 62 years; devoted mother of Diana Beth Jackiewicz (Edward L.), Edward J. Mekel (Jonia) and Alan A. Mekel; loving Nana of Olivia Jackiewicz, Alyssa Mekel and Ryan Mekel; dear sister of the late Rocco Amoroso and Lorena Fitzgerald; also survived by numerous nieces and nephews.

 

Hilda was born on August 31, 1931 in Brooklyn, NY and shortly thereafter moved to Italy. She returned to New York and lived in Queens until she met the love of her life, Edward while on vacation in the Poconos. After they married, they moved to Philadelphia to raise their family, where she built a life filled with love, joy, and countless cherished memories. Hilda was a gentle soul who touched the lives of many throughout her lifetime. She was known for her kindness, and compassion. She was an exceptionally good cook. Her grandson Ryan coined the phrase, "Nana's a good cooker". Her Italian dishes and baked goods were legendary and enjoyed by family and friends. Her delicious meals brought joy and warmth to every occasion. While her three children were in grade school, she was an active member of Melrose Academy Mother's Club. When her sons entered St. Joseph's Prep High School, she continued her service and became the Head of Hospitality with their Mother's Club. Every month she created beautiful flower arrangements that were coveted by all and auctioned off as a fundraiser. Her dedication to the St. Joe's Mother's Club continued for at least ten years after her sons graduated. Hilda's big heart and devotion to the Catholic Church continued with her service to St. Albert the Great by ironing the church linens and priest vestments every week for many years. Hilda enjoyed the company of others and was a longtime member of the church's 55 Plus Club, where she traveled and looked forward to the monthly luncheon. Hilda was an avid reader, tremendous gardener, creative flower arranger and skilled knitter. Her love for knitting continued throughout her life and passed on to her daughter and granddaughter. Many have been the happy recipient of one of Hilda's hand knit items. Hilda will be deeply missed by her loving family and friends. Her memory will forever be cherished, and her legacy of love and warmth will continue to inspire all those who were fortunate enough to know her.

 

Relatives and friends are invited to her viewing, Monday, May 13, 2024, from 6:00-8:00 pm at Wackerman Funeral Home, 8060 Verree Road, Philadelphia, PA 19111 and Tuesday, May 14, 2024, from 9:15-10:15 am at St. Albert the Great Church, 212 Welsh Road, Huntingdon Valley, PA 19006, followed by Funeral Mass at 10:30 am. Interment will be in Holy Sepulchre Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations in Hilda's memory to St. Joseph's Preparatory School, or St. Albert the Great Church, 212 Welsh Rd., Huntingdon Valley, PA 19006, would be appreciated.