Janell Marie Engels

1968 - 2021

Janell Marie Engels passed away on March 28, 2021 at the age of 52 after suffering a sudden and unexpected medical emergency 7 days prior.

She was born in Pasadena, Texas on June 1, 1968 to William and Gladys Richards. Janell lived in Texas for the majority of her young adulthood, and ultimately graduated from Texas A&M University in 1990 with a Bachelor's degree in Health. Upon graduation, she did pursue a career in public health, going on to work in patient education for Planned Parenthood. Her greatest devotion was to her husband and best friend, John Engels, whom she also met during her time at Texas A&M.

Janell and John married 30 years ago in December of 1990 and spent the following several years building a life together in various U.S. cities all while raising their twin sons, William Engels and Anthony Engels. Janell most recently settled in her dream state of Washington, where she and her husband lived for the past 4 years.

Janell was fiercely devoted to her husband and family and worked hard inside the home to ensure they always felt cared for and loved. She loved the outdoors, and enjoyed hiking national parks, visiting different breweries and cideries with John, and traveling around the Pacific Northwest. Owing to her Texas roots, she had a strong love for Tex-Mex and barbecue. She also took great enjoyment from watching The West Wing and University of Michigan football, as well as undertaking knitting projects.

A memorial service will be celebrated by family at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to be sent to SquirrelWood Equine Sanctuary or the Yellowstone Forever Foundation.