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THOMAS ENGEL Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for THOMAS ENGEL
Sponsored by TJ Campbell.
Jim Walsh
December 9, 2010
Dear Joan, Marty and Trisha,
Tommy was a long time family friend. He grew up with my sister Joan. (St. John's). As and adult, I would see Tommy at real estate functions in Chicago, and he always yelled "Jamie!" to me as soon as he saw me. He made me feel great and had that effect on everyone he encountered. I was so sorry to hear of his passing. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
michelle nail
December 6, 2010
Dear Joan, Marty and Trisha,
My heart breaks for you over the loss of your husband and father. I found the news of Tom's death surprising to say the least, if not altogether unbelievable. His "bigger than life" charisma seemed limitless. Yet, was balanced with his shining vulnerability. I remember fondly, nights of sharing tears, spilling our guts, and professing our love for life and each other late night around the kitchen table or around the pool table in the basement. I thank you for those memories, and hope peace finds you soon.
with nostalgic love, michelle nail
Marty, I'd love to hear from you. You can contact via email.
Judy Rossignuolo-Rice '72
December 5, 2010
Dear Joan and Family,
As a Quincy Alum and a resident of The Oak Street Houses, I fondly remember Tom at one of our parties singing into our kitchen sink sprayer using it as a microphone to serenade us with old standards. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
Richard Powell & Family
December 4, 2010
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Rick Abraham
December 4, 2010
Sometimes we get so caught up in searching for greatness that we don't realize when it is right in front of us. Tommy was our very own rock star, he delivered the best theatre on the planet every day. He easily could have been a famous celebrity had he chosen to be more self-centered. He was that charismatic and magnetic. But instead he gave it to all of us. Easily the most loved man I ever met. God broke the mold when he made Tommy. He was the best of us.
Rick Abraham
Lee Lupo
December 4, 2010
I haven't seen Tom in years, and only a few times since our Quincy days, but I'll never forget that smile and that sparkle in his eyes. My condolences, Joan, and to all the members of your family.
Bob Quast
December 4, 2010
Let the light shine! Reading these posts, and visiting with the vast network of souls Tommy has drawn into his energy tonight, it is clear - Tommy was our teacher! The light has become radiant, brighter than ever.
Tommy was my mentor . . . my teacher. Tommy was my friend. Tommy tought me how to "feel the love", and how to love myself . . . and, how the truth really does set you free.
These were more than his "catch phrase cliche's". This was Tommy's life . . . Tommy's light . . . that will evermore shine brightly on all he encountered along his journey through life.
Our lives shine brighter because we had Tommy in our lives.
Our friend, our mentor . . . our teacher.
Joan, Trish, Marty and TJ, I always told Tom he was the richest man in town. The sentiment his friends have expressed here, as well as the love that poured out during his visitation tonight is conclusive evidence. We are all beneficiaries of his largess.
I believe our spirits will reunite.
Sally Carraher Rackowski
December 3, 2010
Oh Joanie...It's been a long time since we all were together. I miss those wonderful fun times. I'll never forget when Tommy brought you to Chicago to first meet all of us. We all fell in love with you and couldn't have been happier for the two of you! Memories of him will always make me laugh and keep a smile on my face.He's dancing with the Angels now....Sending you and your family my love and prayers.
Sally Carraher Rackowski
Mike Asleson
December 3, 2010
To Mrs. Engel (Joan), Marty, Trish & TJ, I am so very sorry for your loss. Tom was always the center piece of every crowd he was in no matter what the situation was. He was always able to bring a smile to everyone's face. His passing may have been his last days of life here with you all, but the memories of his character and amazing presence among family and friends will never be forgotten by you and anyone who was blessed enough to spend time around him. I know the handful of times I got to spend around "Big Tom" were always some of my favorite memories. I wish you and your family comfort in your loss. Love - Mike, Amy & Maya Asleson
Tom LaJeone
December 3, 2010
Marty and Trish - We're very sorry for your loss. I didn't know Tom as well as others did, however I felt like I'd know him forever whenever I saw him. He was always upbeat, gracious and warm to me. Kathy and I pass along our condolences to you and your family. god bless.
Robert Woods
December 3, 2010
To the Engel family, Tommy was a cool jr high guy role model for me as a younger kid at St. Johns, I remember him helping recruit for Fenwick, where I went, and as guys my age grew older, blending together more though family and friends, softball, basketball, big family parties etc.. Whenever I saw Tom, he'd greet me warmly, calling me Pat (my dad's name), no problem, we've all done it, then we would share stories, whether at a wake, St. John's for Mass, Kenny's or the Country House,...what a great guy. He will be missed.
Molly Houlihan
December 3, 2010
Dear Joan, Trisha, TJ, and Marty,
While Tom wasn't exactly our uncle, I know all my siblings always felt like was! The Christmas eve parties were legendary because of your Dad. His joy for life was infectous and he loved making everyone feel a part of the fun.
When he spoke of his grandchildren, he couldn't contain his pride and joy over what great kids they are.
When we first heard about Tom, Peter and I both said that, Heaven just got a lot more fun.
Sending all of you our love and prayers,
Molly and Peter McDermott
December 3, 2010
Tom Boy
Say hi to dad for me and give him a big hug. i'll miss you little brother. We all will.
All My Love, Nano
Joyce Cusack
December 3, 2010
As we all know Quincy made us all family forever..so losing Tom is deep heartache for Joan,Trish and Marty but an equal heartache for his extended Quincy family. We have lost the premier schmoozer of all time
Tom Sullivan
December 2, 2010
Joan, Marty and Trisha, while our lives separated many years ago I think of you often. I am saddened by the passing of your love and your Dad, but remember him for the wonderful man he was. I always will.
All my best and prayers,
Diane Lang
December 2, 2010
Dear Joan and Family,
I'm so sorry for your loss. I use to live across the street from you on Grand. Babysat for Marty & Trisha too. You were great neighbors, so much fun! I remember Tom always making everyone laugh.
My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Love, Diane (Thies) Lang and Family
TJ Campbell
December 2, 2010
On behalf of Tom's family (I am Toms son in law) I want to thank all of you who have posted your kind thoughts, stories and memories. I can tell you firsthand that Joanie, Trisha and Marty have enjoyed reading your posts today. They have provided comfort by way of laughter, smiles and (happy) tears. I am not sure how many people are aware of this site. Please send the link to anyone you know who knew Tom and might be willing to write a few words. We would love to read more. Sincere Thanks
TJ Campbell
December 2, 2010
On behalf of Tom's family (I am Tom's son in law) I want to thank all of you who have posted your thoughts on this site so far. Joan, Marty, and Trish have enjoyed reading your notes and stories today. I don't know that many people are aware of this site but I would encourage you to post your thoughts and to send the link to those you know who knew Big Tom. I can tell you firsthand that they are providing comfort, laughter and (happy) tears to the family today. Thank you.
Connie Wurtzel
December 2, 2010
Well Little Brother, I'm missing you already. Remember those college days when I was the "SnickerDoodle" supplier? Your favorite cookie, always!! You have nothing to worry about as I have a special order just waiting for you. You will be missed.
Sis
Dave Slavik
December 2, 2010
Joanie (and Marty and T.J.): I am so sorry to hear about Tommy's passing. As noted in an earlier entry -- he WAS a whirlwind, larger-than-life personality who made us laugh and love every step of the way. He will be deeply missed by all; and our hearts go out to you.
Dave and Cookie
December 2, 2010
Although I didn't know Tom very long, I did enjoy his company a great deal when I met him at my sons house last month. I found him to be a very nice man and caring person. I'm very sorry to hear of his passing at such a young age. My condolences to the family.
Bob Regimand, San Francisco
Nancy Kopinski
December 2, 2010
Joan I want you to know that have been thinking about you and your family since I heard about Tom. I am so sorry for your loss. I remember how Tom fell so madly in love with you at first sight in college. You are in my prayers. Love, Nano
Bob Brandt
December 2, 2010
Oh, Tommy... coming just a few months after the untimely death of my beloved wife, Ellie, your being gone means that two of life's brightest lights no longer shine. I hope you two have a great time together - - I know you will. To Joan - I know how much you loved and cared for the wonderful crazyman who was your husband, but know that he'll be with you and helping you and your whole family the rest of your days.
Dennis Lingle
December 2, 2010
Tommy you were the best friend anyone could ask for in life!!I got lucky the day you pranced into 3rd grade and stole every ones heart!50 years of love and devotion my dear friend!!You will be deeply missed but never forgotten!!
alexis forsythe
December 2, 2010
Sending prayers to you all...we are thinking of you!
Mark Porter
December 2, 2010
Engel Family,
I am terribly sorry for your loss. Tom had a larger than life personality, and I cannot begin to imagine the pain of your loss. Upon departing my parent's house one time he stated, "Don't worry about me, I'm driving with the Lord!" I have laughed over that countless times since, but now he surely is driving with the Lord I'm sure. He was a great guy. I wish you all comfort in your loss.
Colleen Sullivan
December 2, 2010
Know that your family is in my thoughts and prayers. I hope you find comfort in your many memories and the support of friends.
Much love, Colleen Sullivan
bridget lewis
December 2, 2010
To Mr. Engel, Who provided laughter and joy to everyone he ever met. You will be missed but your memory and legacy of kindness and love will live on! All My Love, Bridget Lewis
Tim Trenkle
December 2, 2010
A whirlwind you were, like a force of nature, always loving, always keenly interested in everyone. Your legacy will be in family and friends who remain countless, memories that are immeasurable. You picked up life by its neck and shook it and never let go. Life is better because you were here. God speed. Your ran a great race.
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