Herbert Engel

BIOGRAPHY

Herbert Engel was born in the village of Borgardt (also known as Beauregard) in Saratov Oblast, Russia, on 18 February 1907, to parents Solomon Engel (1872–1932) and Marie Katherina Healdt (1870–1921). He had at least four siblings: Henry (1893–1980), Pauline Sabelfeldt (1898–1977), Theadora “Thea” All (1909–1995), and Andrew (1912–1986). After his mother’s passing, he and his siblings received permission to leave Russia on 23 March 1923. Thus began his journey to the United States to reunite with his father and eldest brother, who were already in Chicago. His travels took him first to Moscow, then onto a passenger ship, where he spent six days at Ellis Island before boarding a train to Chicago to join his father.

Herbert found work at the age of 16 with Western Electric, assembling phone switchboards. While traveling with the Brotherhood Band for a conference in Michigan, he met Amelia, the woman who would become his wife. They married on 8 September 1929. He later purchased a farm in Berrien Springs, where he cultivated grapes for Welch’s. Over time, he began working for the 1900 Company, which later became Whirlpool Corporation. There, he became a toolmaker, dedicating 42 years to the company before retiring in 1972.

In retirement, Herbert remained active, crafting numerous grandfather clocks, wall clocks, roll-top desks, chairs, cabinets, and cedar chests for family and friends. Each summer, he took great joy in tending to his vegetable garden. He was the oldest living member of the American Historical Society of Germans from Russia (AHSGR) and a founding member of its Southwest Michigan chapter.

Herbert Engel passed away in Berrien Springs, Michigan, USA, on 17 February 2018, a day before his 111th birthday. He was survived by two sons, Herbert and Richard, four daughters, Helen Metzger, Esther Engel, Edna Golladay and Jannette Engel, as well as 11 grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren, and seven great-great-grandchildren.

RECOGNITION

His age has not been validated.

ATTRIBUTION

* Herbert Engel – Find A Grave

* “Celebrating 109 Years” – Caring Circle, Lakeland Health Affiliate, 2016

* Herbert Engel obituary – The Herald-Palladium, 19 February 2018

GALLERY

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