Richard "Dick" Engel

Richard Leo Engel, 71, passed away in his home in Holland, Michigan on April 8, 2024. Richard was born in Virginia Beach, VA on Nov 1, 1952, to Col. Richard Engel and Rita Engel. He was one of five children in a loving, catholic home. He grew up in Tonawanda, NY and quickly grew a love for camping and canoeing; a hobby his brother and father also enjoyed. He graduated from GMI in Flint, MI in 1975. While there, he met his future bride, Sandra (Basen) Engel. They were married at St. John Vianney Catholic Church on September 28th, 1974. After graduation, Richard started a prosperous career as a mechanical engineer at General Motors for over 39 years. He was awarded two patents from the U.S. Government and created many lasting professional relationships across the globe. Richard and Sandra welcomed three children and created a loving home that welcomed family and friends with open arms. He instilled a love of travel and camping in his children after many camping trips across the United States. After retiring from GM, Ford, and consulting with QDas, Richard followed his other passion in life; traveling with his beloved wife. Their cruise around the Mediterranean was a second honeymoon for Richard and Sandra. Those many trips will be remembered for all the amazing sites, but also creating a love of gelato and cappuccino for Richard. Richard was preceded in death by his parents, Col. Richard Engel and Rita Engel, his sister Barbra, and his daughter Susana. He is survived by his wife, Sandra; sons, Nicholas, Phillip (Jonathan); his daughter, Catherine; sisters, Mary and Patricia; brother, Joseph (Diane); many nieces, nephews, and cousins; and his beloved dog, Sport. A funeral mass is planned for 11:00am Saturday, May 11, 2024, at Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Church, 480 152nd Ave, Holland, MI 49424, with Fr. Samuel Sawyer officiating. Visitation is scheduled for 6:00-8:00pm, with Wake Prayers at 7:30pm, on Friday, May 10, at Langeland-Sterenberg Funeral Home, 315 E 16th St., Holland. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Tunnels to Towers Foundation, St. Francis Friends of the Poor, and SEE International. Condolences may be left online at www.langelandsterenberg.com.

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Richard "Dick" Engel

November 1, 1952 - April 8, 2024