Gary Engel
July 19, 1947 - March 30, 2024
Gary Lynn Engel, 76, of Lincoln NE, peacefully departed this world on March 30, 2024. Gary was born July 19, 1947 in Grand Island, NE, to John Robert and Alberta Iona (Richardson) Engel.
Gary graduated from Northeast High School in 1965. After High School he worked for Bruning Company as a Draftsman of Architecture. He then went on to receive his Undergraduate degree in Business and his MBA from Doane College, where he graduated Summa Cum Laude.
During Gary's 33 years at the Lincoln Police Department he served in many roles. He began as a patrol officer and worked up the ranks. He worked for Internal Affairs, was a SWAT Team negotiator that negotiated over 60 crimes with positive outcomes. Gary headed up the White Collar Crime Unit, was Captain of the Southeast team and retired as Captain of the Criminal Investigations division in 2007. In 1990, he was nominated to participate in a 3 month leadership management training program at the FBI National Academy in Quantico, VA. In conjunction with the police department, he helped run the family business, Lee's Propane. Upon retirement from the Department, he became President of the company and worked alongside his daughter Carrie until the business sold in April of 2023.
Gary is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Susan (Lee) Engel. Children Jill Engel (Milwaukee, WI), Jenny Engel and Carrie Engel of (Lincoln, NE). Grandchildren John "Jack" Engel-Kaminsky (Milwaukee, WI), Ella O'Gorman (Lincoln, NE) and grand dog Hadley. Brother, Mike Engel (Bonnie). He was loved by many cousins, nieces, nephews and friends.
Preceded in death by his sister Linda Wentz and parents John and Alberta. Gary and Susie had a beautiful life together. They traveled to many destinations during their marriage. When they were not traveling they were enjoying time with family and friends. They loved spending winters in their Arizona home. Gary enjoyed hobbies such as shooting, hunting, trap, golf, Husker sports and spending time with family and friends. He loved graciously with his whole heart and touched the lives of many.