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- [S927] Obituary.
Evelyn Engel, formerly of Glendive, passed away on Dec. 22, 2013, in Billings, where she had lived since 1999.
She was born Evelyn Booke on April 5, 1919, in Belfield, N.D., to Bill and Susie Booke. Evelyn grew up with five sisters and a brother on a family farm during the Depression. Although hard work was certainly part of life on the North Dakota plains, their home was also filled with laughter, love for one another and dancing. The Booke girls were known to have danced their way through the Great Depression while also sharing whatever extra they had with those in need.
Evelyn married Al Engel in 1940 and they made their home in Mott, N.D., until 1953, when the family moved to Glendive and opened Glendive Glass Paint & Linoleum. Her husband, Al, died suddenly of a heart attack in 1958. With five young children at home, Evelyn took over the family business and, with strength of spirit, prayer and hard work, she successfully operated the business until her retirement in 1983. Along the way, her children worked at her side in the store and at home. Evelyn carried herself with quiet dignity and she developed a well-earned reputation for honesty and fairness as well as a selfless devotion to others. A lifelong learner, she emphasized the importance of education and she made personal sacrifices to send all of her children to college. Evelyn had a strong Catholic faith, but showed great respect for other faiths. She was a patient and good listener and always gave thoughtful guidance.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Al, and her daughter Karen. She is survived by her children, Larry (Joyce) Engel of Erie, Colo., Patricia (Don) Kelly of Billings, Douglas (Janet) Engel of Poulsbo, Wash., Nancy (David) Rigg of Billings; 13 grandchildren and 26 great-grandchildren. Her youngest great-grandchild and namesake, Evelyn McKenzie, was born Dec. 5.
Mom, you have truly been a good and faithful servant. We are so thankful for the lessons you taught us, the love you showed us and the life you gave us. Your entire life, you’ve put other people’s needs in front of your own. But now you must go, for you are late for the dance. And your dance partner, Al, has waited a very long time.
Memorials may be made to St. Vincent de Paul or Family Promise of Yellowstone Valley.
A vigil service will be held at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 27, at Michelotti-Sawyers Mortuary, 1001 Alderson Ave. Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 28, at St. Thomas the Apostle Church.
Condolences may be made online at www.michelottisawyers.com.
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1919 - 2013 (94 years)