Jake Engel

Although he was taken from his loved ones much too soon, Jacob “Jake” Engel made a significant impact in the lives of everyone he met. He was adventurous, free spirited, and outgoing with a zest for life that was contagious to all who were near. Jake was hardworking and deeply devoted to the things he was passionate about, and he was always willing to do what he could to lend a helping hand. It was no secret that he was married to the love of his life, and together they were preparing to welcome their precious baby girl later this year. Life will never be the same without Jake here, but he leaves behind a priceless collection of memories that his friends and loved ones will forever cherish.

The 1980s were a time to remember in America. This was the beginning of the age of technology when car phones, video cassette recorders, and CD players were among the growing trends. Micheal Jackson brought the world his “Bad” album, The Simpsons were seen on television for the first time, and Dirty Dancing caused quite the stir. It was as the beauty of spring was beginning to unfold in Saugatuck, Michigan, in 1987 that Bob and Lisa Engel were eagerly awaiting the birth of their new baby. Their wait was finally over on April 20th when the baby boy they named Jacob made his arrival in nearby Holland. He was one of two children as he was raised in the family home in Saugatuck alongside his sister, Samantha.

It comes as no surprise to those who knew Jake that he was active and adventurous while growing up. He was into ninja turtles and played Little League baseball, Rocket football, and wrestled. As a teen Jake continued playing both baseball and football, and he also played basketball as well. He was always social and outgoing and made several lifelong friends while he was growing up. Jake attended local schools where he graduated from high school and then went on to earn his bachelor’s degree. He spent 14 years working at The Butler, but once he graduated from college he began working for the Griffins.

New and exciting changes were in store for Jake when he met the love of his life. Her name was Rose, and they met online. Jake and Rose began dating, and it wasn’t long before they found themselves deeply in love. With a desire to establish a new life together the sweethearts were married on June 6, 2015, at the Community Church of Douglas. The newlyweds enjoyed a honeymoon that Jake singlehandedly planned, and he took care of every single detail. They were doing something the entire time they were gone with no time for rest. Jake even surprised Rose with a side trip to Paris once he realized that she was disappointed that they were traveling so close but weren’t making a stop at the Eiffel Tower. Jake set up a private tour of the city, and it was was the most amazing experience. Their favorite part of the trip was the respite they experienced in Scotland about halfway through their whirlwind tour of Europe having visited several parts of England and also knowing how busy they would be in Ireland. As a lover of all things Harry Potter, Jake planned a stop at a Harry Potter studios where they filmed many of the movies. Both Jake and Rose considered their wedding day to be the best day of their lives, and Rose has said that it was the light at the end of her dark tunnel. It was a perfect day, and everyone there could see how happy they both were to promise forever to each other. Their love only came full circle when they learned they would be welcoming their baby girl, Charlotte Anne, this June. Jake’s dogs, Luna and Ellie, were his babies, and he loved spoiling them rotten.

Throughout his life Jake had many interests. He loved anything to do with sports and enjoyed following his favorite times, the Lions, Tigers, Red Wings, U of M, and of course, the Griffins. Jake had spreadsheets of any team one could think of and kept up on it all. With a deep love for family, he adored his three nephews and loved spending time with them whenever he could. In addition to Harry Potter, Jake liked watching The Office and loved visiting the zoo.

All who knew Jacob “Jake” Engel would agree that he was the nicest guy you could ever meet. He was smart, outgoing, friendly, and accepting of others with a heart that was as big as they come. A friend of Jake’s was a friend for life, and he was the sort of guy who would do whatever he could for someone else. Deeply loved, he will be forever missed.

Jacob “Jake” Engel, of Saugatuck, passed away February 6, 2018, with family by his side. Jake’s family includes his wife, Rose Engel; parents, Bob & Lisa Engel; sister, Samantha Engel; grandparents, Gwen Miser, Bob & Pat Engel; parents-in-law, Dennis & Ellen VanderWel; sister-in-law, Beth VanderWel; brother-in-law, Buddy & Robin VanderWel; nephews, Wyatt Miliusis, Jonathan Engel, Evan Kothman; and many aunts, uncles, and cousins. Jake was preceded in death by his grandfather, Arden Miser, and uncle, Craig Miser. Visitation for Jake will be Friday, February 9 from 2-4 p.m. and 5-7 p.m. at Dykstra Funeral Home – Mulder Chapel, 188 W 32nd Street, Holland. A Memorial Service will be Saturday, February 10 at 1:00 p.m. at Community Church of Douglas, 6874 Wiley Rd, Fennville, MI.