Alexander J. Engel Jr.

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; one 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, from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Rapid River Congregational Church. Services honoring Alex will begin at 3 p/m. A luncheon will be served in the church hall. To offer online condolences, please visit www.skradskifuneralhomes.com. The Skradski Family Funeral Homes of Delta County are assisting the Engel family.