Durward Ensine Engle's Obituary
Durward "Woody" Engle, age 89, was called home by his Lord and savior, Jesus Christ, on October 27, 2022. He was born in 1933 in Hancock, Wisconsin to Ensine and Mayme Luhm Engle, and was raised in Spring Lake, Wisconsin. After graduating from Wautoma High School, his adventurous spirit took him to California to work at Ryan Aircraft Company. Shortly thereafter, a draft letter arrived, and he served in the US Army in Germany for two years. Upon his return home to Wautoma, his adventuresome spirit continued, and he drove stock cars. There, he was spotted by a girl, Susan Becker, who later became his wife. The couple had two children together before Susan sadly passed away from cancer in 1981. After being introduced to Wilma Thompson of Louisville, Kentucky, he was blessed by love once again, and the two were married in 1983. Woody drove an 18-wheeler and late was the Safety Director for CW Transport, racking up over 2.5 million miles during that part of his career. When the company went out of business, he then drove a bus for the City of Oshkosh for 15 years until his retirement. Although he lived most of his life in Oshkosh, he always loved the slower pace of the country. He appreciated the simple things in life, such as taking long car rides in the country, walking many miles and taking in the beauty of creation and the outdoors, and also enjoyed woodworking. During the last years of his life, he selflessly cared for his wife. Those who know him would say he was strong and independent, and yet a chivalrous, kind, quiet, and humble man of faith in Jesus Christ.
He was preceded in death by his wife (Susan), and many other family members and friends.
He is survived by his wife (Wilma), children, Todd (Terri) Engle and Debbie (Tom) Kahler; stepchildren Patsy Padgett, Trisha (Mark) Scherzer, Brenda Schewmon, and Mark (Beverly) Thompson; his brother Elward (Carol) Engle and sisters Melva (Bruce) Johnson and Eloise Engle, as well as many step-grandchildren, step-great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and extended family members and friends. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him!
Funeral services for Durward will be held in Crossroads Family Church (640 S Water St Wautoma) on Wednesday November 2, at 11:30 AM with the Rev Phillip Engle officiating. Burial will be in Hope Lutheran Cemetery. Family and friends may call at the church on Wednesday from 10:00 AM until the hour of services.
What’s your fondest memory of Durward?
What’s a lesson you learned from Durward?
Share a story where Durward's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Durward you’ll never forget.
How did Durward make you smile?

