Howard B. Engel Jr.

Engel, Howard Jr.
SELKIRK - Howard B. Engel Jr., 81, of Selkirk, entered Eternal Rest on November 21, 2025, with his loving family by his side. Born in Albany on September 16, 1944, he was the son of the late Howard B. Engel Sr., Dorothy (Moak) Engel, and Agnes (Budner) Engel.
Survived by his loving wife of 56 years, Waynette (Wade); his children Howard B. (Sarah) Engel III, Rebecca (Teddy) Reville, and Cory (Mandy) Engel; his grandchildren Grace, Lauryn, Howard B. IV "Brady," Eddie, Charlie, and Cody; his siblings Gary (Tammy) Engel, Bea Post, and Rick (Kathy) Engel; and his in-laws Cheri (Harry) Rakers, Kent (Donna) Wade, and Tina (Terry) Harlan, as well as many nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his sister, Elaine Jenkins; his brother-in-law, Brian Post; and nieces, Diane and Megan Engel.
Howie was a graduate of Ravena-Coeymans-Selkirk High School Class of 1962, and Ithaca College Class of 1966. There, he studied Health and Physical Education, and played on the first undefeated Ithaca College football team. After college, he enlisted in the United States Air Force, and served four years at ENT Air Force Base in Colorado Springs, Colo., where he met his loving wife, Waynette. During his service, he attained the rank of Sergeant as recreational specialist. He also played for the ENT AFB softball team, where he caught over 100 games a season. After being honorably discharged, he returned to Selkirk, and began his career in education at Lansingburgh High School, where he taught Health and Physical Education, while coaching baseball and football. Several years later, he was fortunate enough to return to his alma mater, RCS, to teach and coach, until becoming the High School Vice Principal, a role he served in for 19 years. In his last few years at RCS, he returned to the classroom, while also serving as Athletic Director, retiring in 1999. In his retirement, he enjoyed spending valuable time with family, especially his six grandchildren, whom he absolutely adored, attending their various sporting events, concerts, and graduations. Howie also enjoyed playing golf in several local leagues, as well as playing courses all around the area with his golfing buddies.
Relatives and friends are invited to call on Saturday November 29, 2025, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the Babcock Funeral Home, 19 Pulver Avenue Ravena, N.Y. 12143.
A reception immediately following the memorial service will be held.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made in memory of Howie, to Homeward Bound Dog Rescue of New York, LLC, P.O. Box 5782, Albany N.Y. 12205, or the Community Hospice at St. Peter's Hospital.
To share a memory, or more for more information, please visit www.babcockfuneralhome.com