After being diagnosed with Stage IV pancreatic and liver cancer just before Thanksgiving, Ron passed away peacefully, in the company of his wife, Sharon Engel, on Friday, March 13, 2015 at the age of sixty-three. Please join us on Sunday, March 22, 2015 to celebrate his life. The Memorial Service will be held at Englewood High School, 3800 S. Logan Street, Englewood CO at 2pm in the auditorium.

Ron, a Colorado native, born to John William and Phyllis June Engel on December 12, 1951, was the 2nd of three children in his family. Ron, his older brother, Steve Engel, and his younger sister, Janie Hamman, all support the City of Englewood and their proud alma mater, the Englewood High School Pirates. Ron cherished the memories of his high school athletic years, participating in football, wrestling and track. Despite his modest attitude, Ron was all conference in football, wrestled at the State competition and excelled in track. His success provided him the opportunity to attend the University of Colorado where he played football for the Buffaloes and traveled to the Blue Bonnet Bowl in Texas.

Ron returned home to help his dad run the family business. He quickly developed a huge following of clients and friends at Bill’s Auto Service, 900 E. Hampden Ave, Englewood CO. He enjoyed serving the Swedish Medical Center and Craig Hospital patients and staff with all of their auto care needs and lent his listening ear to all who needed it. He developed a very large, loyal group of patrons at the shop. Many of whom, stopped by for regular coffee talk and to listen to Ron’s take on life. He paid special attention to his elderly clients and would always go the extra mile to help out those in need.

Anyone who knew Ron, knew just how important his family was to him and just how proud he was of his family. He made a lifetime full of memories with Sharon celebrating 34 years of marriage this past December. He was a dedicated father and role model to his sons Billy (John William) Engel and John Coots and his daughter Marijane Thomas-Jobe. His son Billy was blessed to marry Marlo in Las Vegas this past July and Ron was blessed to be a witness to that special event. His son John celebrated 15 years of marriage this past January to “his bride”, Cathy, and they have two sons Michael (who is finishing up Basic Training for the US Army) and Ryan who just celebrated his 10th birthday. His daughter, Marijane, reunited with Jared, a friend from her high school days, and fell in love. They share a beautiful blended family of 4. Kyler was just accepted to the Colorado School of Mines, Madison and Hailey will be entering their senior year of high school in the Fall and Hannah will be starting seventh grade. Ron loved bragging about his grandchildren and very much enjoyed watching them play sports and supporting them in all they did. He will always be their biggest fan.

In lieu of flowers, the Engel family has established a memorial fund in Ron’s honor. The “Pirate Athlete’s Assistance Fund” will assure that all kids are given the opportunity to play the game. Donations to the “Pirate Athlete’s Assistance Fund” will be accepted at the memorial service on Sunday or Englewood High School at any time. 3800 S. Logan Street, Englewood, CO 80113