Barry Bickel, of Whitehall, marked half a century as a volunteer for Cetronia Ambulance Corps July 17 with a surprise celebration at its headquarters in South Whitehall Township.

Bickel is the longest-tenured volunteer in Cetronia’s 62-year history. To honor his selfless and unmeasured contributions, the Cetronia staff hosted a party.

Bickel, 76, of Whitehall, began his volunteer work with Cetronia in 1967 as part of the organization’s field personnel, responding to emergency calls. After years as an active field provider, in the communications departments and on various committees, Bickel decided to move his volunteer efforts to more administrative tasks. Currently, he volunteers in the billing department, including helping with mailing and subscription memberships, putting in about 200 volunteer hours each year.

“It is an honor to recognize Barry for his selfless commitment to the community and our organization,” said Larry Wiersch, chief executive officer at Cetronia. “Barry is an incredible asset, mentor and role model for our younger volunteers and represents the true spirit of volunteerism for future generations of the Cetronia family to follow.”

In 2010, Bickel also was honored with the Shining Star Award by St. Luke’s University Health Network for his contributions to the community.

When not volunteering, by day Bickel worked as a sound engineer at WHRP radio until 1972 and then as an electronics technician for TuWay Communications from 1973 until his retirement in 1999. Bickel also was a Boy Scout leader for 27 years.

Married to his wife, Jean Ann, for 51 years, Bickel has two children and two grandchildren.

“He has always been a great example of volunteering and a good example to all of us to serve the community and others,” said Bickel’s son Paul.