Joseph Redel, who helped found the city of Sunset Hills in 1957, celebrated his 100th birthday today — Feb. 13, according to current Sunset Hills Mayor Bill Nolan.

Redel served as the city’s first collector in 1958 and then was elected to the Board of Aldermen in 1959. He served as an alderman until 1968, when he was elected mayor.

“(He) served as mayor until 1974 and was the moving force behind establishing the Sunset Hills Police Department in ’73,” Nolan told the Call.

In honor of Redel’s 100th birthday, the city of Sunset Hills has issued a proclamation declaring Feb. 13 as Joseph Redel Day in the city.

County Executive Charlie Dooley also has issued a proclamation declaring Feb. 13 as Joseph Redel Day in St. Louis County, according to Nolan.

In addition, Redel received proclamations from the Missouri House and the Missouri Senate, as well as letters of congratulation from Sen. Claire McCaskill, Sen. Matt Blunt and U.S. Rep. Russ Carnahan.

Redel celebrated his birthday on Saturday with roughly 50 family members and friends in Eureka, where he now resides, according to Nolan.