Alexander J. Engel Jr., age 92, of Rapid River, passed away peacefully on Thursday, April 18, 2024 at the D.J. Jacobetti Home for Veterans in Marquette.
Alex was born on April 12, 1932 in Chicago, the son of Alexander Sr. and Clara (Shymanski) Engel. Alex was raised in Chicago and graduated from Waller High School. He continued his education for two years in junior college before enlisting in the United States Army. After his honorable discharge, Alex went back to school to earn his Bachelor’s degree in business.
In 1953, Alex was united in marriage to the former Iola Haglund and together they shared 70 wonderful years of marriage. They lived in Illinois for most of their lives until retiring to the Upper Peninsula. Alex spent most of his career working as an insurance agent for Prudential but he also was proud of being a Mason and a Shriner. He also was part of the Rapid River Lions Club, Gladstone Golf Course, Chicago Moose Club, and was a devoted member of the Rapid River Congregational Church. Alex also enjoyed playing cards, especially Bridge, traveling to warmer places over the winter, dancing, working in his yard, and tinkering. He especially loved spending time with his family and telling jokes and laughing.
Alex is survived by his loving wife Iola; children Brenda (Ernest) Carey, Rhonda Ingebrigtsen, Mona (William) Shipman, Carl (Diane) Engel and Paul (Elizabeth) Engel; numerous grandkids, great-grandkids, nieces, nephews, and cousins; 1 great-great-grandchild; and son-in-law Mike LeCuyer.
Alex was preceded in death by his parents, daughter Nina LeCuyer, son-in-law Dale Ingebrigtsen, and siblings Connie Shivers and Jim Engel.
Family will receive friends on Saturday, April 27, 2024 from 1 PM to 3 PM at the Rapid River Congregational Church. Services honoring Alex will begin at 3 PM. A luncheon will be served in the church hall.
Kelly Gregory - St. Louis, MO
Our deepest condolences, the Gregory family
Bill - Marquette, MI
I am so sorry to hear of Alex’s passing. My thought and prayers are with all of you. I saw Alex several days a week while visiting my dad at Jacobetti. He did love his oatmeal and chocholate milk. Loved his cookies too when they got them. RIP Alex.
Ina Engel - Dayton, OH
To Iola and children–special prayers for peace and comfort. The great, family-times bring smiles (Uncle Al entertained all)! I am grateful and appreciate the kindness of the Engel family!
Deepest Sympathy!
Bonnie Weiss - Arlington Hts, IL
Dear Olie,
Terri let me know about Al. I am so sorry for your loss. I remember everyone from your crowd in Bristol and how much fun you all had playing music, cards, and singing together. I seem to remember “Pick Me Up on your Way Down” the best. I still remember most of the words. What a blessing to have such a wonderful group of friends. I remember Al always had a twinkle in his eye and was ready to crack a joke at a moment’s notice. I hope you find comfort in your memories and that in your sadness you will find moments of joy to help you through the pain of grief.
Take care,
Bonnie Johnson (Weiss)
Deanna and Mark Koski - Escanaba , Mi
Rhonda and family – We are sorry for your loss. May you feel God’s love and His perfect Peace.
Lance Joseph Wolfe - Munising, MI
Our thoughts and prayers are with Auntie Olie and the kids. So many great memories with Uncle Al; especially when we were little kids! He was a very fun person to be around, he knew how to enjoy life and brought great joy to all of us.