Karolina Engel, 88, of Sioux City, passed away suddenly at a local hospital on Tuesday, October 21, 2025. A dedicated wife and mother, she leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion that will be cherished by all who knew her.
Funeral Services will be held at 10:30 A.M. Monday, October 27, 2025, at Mater-Dei Parish Immaculate Conception Catholic Church. Visitation with the family will be from 9:00 AM until service time. Burial will be at Calvary Cemetery.
Karolina was born on April 21, 1937, the daughter of Adolf and Rosa Schneid. She was raised in Germany, where she met her beloved husband, Vernon Engel, while working at a guesthouse in 1956 during his time with the United States Army. Their love flourished, and the couple was married on October 12, 1957, recently celebrating their 68th wedding anniversary. Together, they built a life in Sioux City, where they nurtured a family that became the center of Karolina's world.
Throughout her life, Karolina exemplified creativity and nurturing, particularly in her hobbies. She was a gifted knitter, creating countless hats that she shared with friends and family. Her green thumb was evident in her gardening and canning activities, bringing forth the fruits of her labor to enjoy with her loved ones. A passionate reader, she found delight in immersing herself in stories and was known to watch her favorite show, Law and Order. One of Karolina's proudest accomplishments was achieving her citizenship in 1975.
She is survived by her husband, Vernon Engel, and their children: Donna Moreland of Cheyenne, WY, Elizabeth Thompson (Bradley Upright) of Chickasha, OK, Mike Engel of Springfield, NE, John (Roxie) Engel of Omaha, NE, and Rose (Mike) Hoyt of Omaha, NE. Additionally, her legacy continues through her 16 grandchildren and 47 great-grandchildren, all of whom brought her immense joy and pride.
She is preceded in death by her parents, her granddaughter Katie, her great-grandchild Azriel, and her two sisters and two brothers.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and condolences can be left on the obituary at the funeral home website.


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