Sister M. Angeline Hakel known for commitment to education, Holy Name Parish

Servant of Mary Sister M. Angeline Hakel didn’t seem to know how to retire, actively serving others throughout her nearly 80 years of religious life – as a longtime member of Holy Name Parish in Omaha, as an educator for more than 60 years and as an advocate for social justice.

Sister Ange, as she was known to members of her religious community, died March 2 with her fellow Servants of Mary at her side. She was 99.

A funeral Mass was to be offered at 11 a.m. March 10, with a 10 a.m. wake service beforehand, both at Servants of Mary Motherhouse Chapel (Our Lady of Sorrows Convent), 7400 Military Ave., Omaha. 

Sister Ange made her final profession as a Servant of Mary in 1946 and was a teacher, librarian, liturgist and resource aid at schools in Omaha; Massena, New York; Detroit; and Anthon, Salix and Sioux City in Iowa.

She served at schools in Omaha for 38 years, at the former St. Benedict the Moor and Christ the King and Holy Name.

“Her commitment to Holy Name Parish was outstanding,” the Servants of Mary said. “From elementary school on, Sr. Ange was a lifelong ‘Rambler,’” the sisters wrote, “having lived and taught in Holy Name parish for many years.”

Sister Ange volunteered as a liturgist at Holy Name and never missed helping at a fish fry, they said.

Sister Ange was always ready for a challenge, the Servants of Mary said, and “retirement did not lessen her determination,” as she remained passionate about the pro-life cause and other social justice issues.

“She was committed to mastering the computer to stay in touch with senators” and keep connected to loved ones, the sisters said. Sister Ange had sent emails until the last week of her life.

“Sister Ange will be remembered for her warm smile, deep and sincere interest in those she met, and for her faithfulness and deep convictions.”

She was preceded in death by her parents, Adolph and Emma Hakel; brothers Thomas Hakel, Bus (Adolph) Hakel and Ralph Hakel; sisters Jo Ann Donovan and Claire O’Connor.

Survivors include her sister, Mary Ann Holman; many nieces and nephews; and her Servants of Mary sisters.

Memorials can be made to Servants of Mary, www.osms.org.