The Alburtis Hockey Court was dedicated Sept. 26 in memory of Althea Walbert and her daughter, Jeannette.

Located on Cobblestone Court next to the basketball court in Alburtis, a pinewood sign, paid for by a donation from Longswamp United Church of Christ in Mertztown reads, "Walbert Hockey Court In memory of Althea and Jeannette Walbert."

When local boys approached Alburtis Borough Council over a year ago to convert the unused tennis court to a hockey court the request was unanimously approved by borough council and the park and recreation committee, chaired by Kathleen Raines, was assigned the task.

"Council listens to the citizens and tries to provide for the needs of their adult citizens and their children. These local boys wanted a place to play hockey. Kids need positive things to do together in their spare time that keeps them busy and out of trouble," Raines said.

Althea and Jeannette Walbert would clean the courts every day when the boys left, according to neighbors. The mother and daughter were also seen picking up litter wherever they were in town and their lawn at 122 Cobblestone Court was always well kept, as was their home.

The women were victims of a double homicide March 11, 2011, and the man who allegedly killed them, Brandin Kasick, is awaiting trial.

At a council meeting held Aug. 29, 2012, council members Raines and Kyle Bower recommended the park be named Walbert Hockey Court in memory of the Walberts.

Rotary Club donated $1,000 and plans were submitted and approved by borough council. Trash receptacles were donated by BBRP and local businesses also made donations.

When funds were needed for the sign, Raines contacted Longswamp U.C.C., which inherited the Walbert estate, and asked the church for a donation in honor of the Walberts. The church approved the donation and several members were happy to attend the dedication.

Althea and her husband were married and worshipped at Longswamp U.C.C. in Mertztown. Their daughter Jeannette was baptized there and she and her mother were lifelong members.

Althea loved her home, Mertztown and Alburtis, and her church, said Kimberly Jenkins, president of the church consistry, who attended the dedication with Bob Friedly, church treasurer.

"Althea was a humble, private person. She did not like anything in excess. But we are sure, seeing this sign and the dedication of the court in her and her daughter's name that she would whole-heartedly approve. Thank you for allowing Althea and Jeannette's church to be a part of this memorial," Jenkins said.

"The senseless act that took our friends and neighbors Althea and Jeannette away will forever be etched in the minds of our community," Palmer said.

'Today we come together as a community to remember Althea and Jeannette for the kind and friendly ladies they were, unfortunately taken from us too soon, but never to be forgotten by the residents of Alburtis."