Obituary of Alyce Preisel

Alyce Preisel (95) went home to God on January 13, 2018. She was born March 16, 1922 in the Inwood section of Manhattan to Katherine and George Heffernan. Alyce and her late husband Jack moved to Peekskill in 1952 and immediately became active members in the growing St. Columbanus Church community. Alyce was a member and officer of the Rosary & Altar Society at St. Columbanus, as well as the Peekskill Women’s Club, rising through all of the chairs to the position of President and participation on the New York State Federation level. In addition to raising their four children, Alyce and Jack became foster parents to 56 babies over a period of 11 years (1957 to 1968). Then she worked as secretary to the principal of St. Columbanus School for 20 years before retiring. To “test the waters” of retirement, Alyce volunteered at Hudson Valley Hospital Center in Peekskill and stayed for 30 years. Her various positions included reception desk greeter, cashier in gift shop, Auxiliary Board member and officer, raising money and lending a hand wherever needed. In 1998, Alyce was inducted into the Senior Citizen Hall of Fame of Westchester County. Alyce is survived by her children John (Marybeth), Patricia (Patsy), Maureen and Maryrose. Also survived by grandchildren Kim, John (Vanessa), Joseph (Julie), Christina and Meghan. Donations may be made to St. Columbanus Church.