Obituary of David T Engel
David T. Engel passed away peacefully on January 30, 2022 at the age of 68. A lifelong Peekskill resident, Dave was born along with his twin sister Debra on July 11, 1953.
After graduating Peekskill High School, Class of 1972, Dave went on to work at Poritzky’s Meat Company for 11 years. He was then able to live out his dream of becoming a Professional Firefighter with Local 2343 for the City of Peekskill, serving for 27 years before his retirement in 2010. He loved every moment on the job and was grateful to serve in his hometown, which was near and dear to his heart.
Most near and dear to his heart, however, was his family whom he adored.
He married the love of his life, Debbie Powell on June 11, 1977, whom he affectionately called “His Bride.” Together they raised their daughter Danielle and their son David.
Dave enjoyed being a class parent for several years at Uriah Hill Elementary School, volunteering his time with the Peekskill Lapolla Little League, serving as a parent advocate on the Committee for Special Education in Peekskill City School District, and becoming a past president and lifelong member of the Cortlandt Hook and Ladder.
In his free time, Dave enjoyed cooking, playing horseshoes, bowling and tending to his bountiful vegetable garden. He was always happy to share the fruits of his labor.
Dave simply enjoyed life, making friends everywhere he went. He always just wanted to make others smile or laugh with one of his memorable stories. A kind soul, he would always go the extra mile to help someone in need. After retiring, he spent many years volunteering for the American Cancer Society driving cancer patients to appointments.
His heart of gold radiated far and wide and he will be missed by all who were blessed to have met him.
Dave is predeceased by his parents Thomas and Marguerite (Tarantino) Engel.
Dave is survived by his loving wife Debbie, his daughter Danielle, his son David (Vicky) and granddaughter Emily.
He is also survived by his sister Debra (William) Riker and Diane (Neil) Forman; his nephew Jeff (Tatiana) Forman; his nieces Sharon (Walter) Forman-Wiegel, Wendy (Ronnie) Harbolic, and Michelle (Michael) Rizzo.
He will also be lovingly remembered by his sisters-in-law, Maureen (Bill) Olsen and Sharon Powell, many dear great-nieces and nephews, as well as all of his cousins.
If you would like to make a donation in memory of Dave, please consider:
Nor-West Regional Special Services, PO Box 420, Crugers, NY 10521 or The Burn Fund at IAFF.
The family would like to thank everyone who was a friend to him and for the support they are receiving at this difficult time.
They have chosen to have a private cremation and will be planning a Celebration of Life Service in the Spring for those who wish to attend.
