Grosse Pointe News

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Earl R. EngelFree Access


Earl R. Engel

Grosse Pointe Woods resident Earl R. “Bud” Engel, 87, passed away peacefully Wednesday, Nov. 18, 2020, surrounded by his loving family.

Born Sept. 29, 1933, in Washington, Pa., he was the son of Earl and Peg Engel, both now deceased.

Bud is survived by his loving and faithful wife of nearly 63 years, Barbara. He was the proud father of Sandi, Scott (Julie), Brian (Paula) and Craig; and loving grandfather of 13 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. He also is survived by his loving sister, Shirley Schuetz, and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his beloved granddaughter, Jenna.

Bud was raised on his family’s farm in Pennsylvania and moved to Detroit in the 1940s. A graduate of Southeastern High School, he earned a full academic scholarship to the University of Michigan at age 16. Bud graduated from U of M in 1955, with a degree in civil engineering. He then served in the U.S. Army, where he met Barbara.

Bud and Barbara were married in Waynesboro, Va., in 1957.

A simple man, Bud dedicated his life to his faith, family, friends, U of M football and Grosse Pointe Woods-Shores Little League.

He was an active member and often served as president at Mt. Olive Lutheran Church for 60 years.

Bud’s family said he worked incredibly hard as a general contractor and spent any spare time with his family. His only vacations involved following U of M’s football team across the country. Nothing gave him more joy than watching his children and grandchildren play sports with Barb at his side; the couple was in the stands for hundreds of games throughout Michigan and beyond. An equal opportunity “Pop Pop,” he attended many dance recitals as well.

Bud coached the Woods-Shores Little League more than 25 years. His greatest moment came in 1979, when he helped coach the first Grosse Pointe Woods team and his son, Craig, to the Little League World Series in Williamsport, Pa. He considered the players “his kids” and many of their parents became Bud’s lifelong friends. Bud was at his best coaching Little League baseball, his family said.

Bud will be remembered for his “everything is great” positive attitude and ability to make others laugh, telling the same corny stories and jokes for 50 years, his family said. He will be missed by his adoring family, friends and hundreds of former Little League players.

A private service was held Nov. 2. Burial took place in Attica Township.

In lieu of flowers, donations in remembrance of Bud may be made to Grosse Pointe Woods-Shores Little League, 714 Woods Ln., Grosse Pointe Woods, MI 48236.

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