Arzella Dirksen, 89, died Oct. 10, 2022. She was born March 2, 1933, in Goessel, Kan., to Eva and Jacob P. Nikkel.

She grew up at various farms and homes near North Newton, Kan. She married Melvin A. Dirksen on Oct. 18, 1953.

Due to their faith with the Mennonite church and abiding belief in peace, they moved to Colorado so Melvin could serve with the alternative 1-W service program. They loved the mountains and the state, and they stayed.

They attended First Mennonite Church in Denver and enjoyed many friendships there until Mel’s death in 2012. They also shared friendships with neighbors during the 53 years in their Leyden Street home. The relationships with their siblings and families in Kansas and beyond were important.

In later years, they enjoyed many travels all over the United States and parts of Europe. Arzella discovered a new hobby and found common ground with Mel on the golf course. She was especially thrilled by the hole-in-one she made with her women’s league. She also loved horseback riding.

Her greatest source of pride was her career with the HelpCenter at Denver Channels 7 and 4 until the mid-1980s, as well as her time with Arapahoe Basin Ski Patrol Auxiliary. Her farm roots and people skills shone brightly again in her leadership with Denver Urban Gardens at the nearby Ash Grove/Cook Park Garden.

She is survived by a son, Jim; daughters Jan (Kirk Williams) and Suzanne (Jeff Opp); six grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

Memorial and inurnment took place Aug. 4 at Alexanderwohl Mennonite Church, Goessel.