N. DAVID J. VAN ENGEL

Adjust Text Size: A+ A-

N. DAVID J. VAN ENGEL On Saturday, December 28, 2002, after an "inspired" battle with cancer, David parted this life, prepared to experience the challenges of the life beyond. I have chosen to write my own obitbulkloaduary. Life began for me in Winnipeg on January 13, 1941. I was predeceased by my parents, Cervin and Jessie (nee Scott) in 1985 and 1987 respectively. I am survived by my sister Daphne Allec (Louis) my children, Scott, Neil and Allyson van Engel and Cindy Nabess and their children. Of particular joy and pride to me in my later time was my youngest grandchild, Korwin van Engel. My entire life was spent in Winnipeg and Portage la Prairie and points between. My entire working life was spent in the "helping" professions. For several years in the 60s and 70s I was engaged in youth and community ministry, primarily with the United Church in Winnipegs core area. In 1973 I began a 28 year career with the Manitoba Department of Justice which drew to a close in 2002 due to ill health. Church involvement has been a major focus in my life. I have been privileged to serve my church in many different capacities in several different pastoral charges. My personal faith and my need to challenge the "Goliaths" in my life has been a sustaining force in my life, in particular during this recent challenge. Politics has been an interest of mine, that at one point saw me instructing in the model parliament movement throughout the province. I am grateful for the support and opportunities given me by Central Plains Cancer Care Services and its support groups. I have long subscribed to the notion that "problems are opportunities". Should friends desire, donations may be made to Central Plains Cancer Care Services, 318 Saskatchewan Ave. E., Portage la Prairie, MB, R1N 0K8, or to the Memorial Fund, Trinity United Church, 15 Tupper St. S., Portage la Prairie, MB, R1N 1W7. A celebration of my life will be held at Trinity United Church, 15 Tupper St. S., Portage la Prairie, on Friday, January 3, 2003 at 1:30 p.m. with Rev. Ross Taylor officiating. Interment is to follow at Evergreen Memorial Gardens, Portage la Prairie. A tree will be planted and cared for in memory of David by McKENZIES PORTAGE FUNERAL CHAPEL who are entrusted with the arrangements. 857-4021

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Dec 31, 2002