Delphin Engel, 90

Delphin John Engel, 90, rural Garfield, died peacefully at his home on September 22, 2012.

Delphin was born March 5, 1922 in Mankato, to Paul and Lydia (Schwarz) Engel of Amboy. He attended Fieldon Lutheran Parochial School and was confirmed in the Lutheran faith at Trinity Lutheran Church in Madelia. He grew up on his parents’ farm in Pleasant Mound Township in Blue Earth County.

In 1942, Delphin enlisted in the United States Navy and served in the European and Pacific theaters for more than three years and was honorably discharged in December 1945. Delphin was proud of his service to his country and treasured the time spent at his shipmate reunions.

Delphin’s family moved to a farm in Urness Township, Douglas County, in 1946 and he met Gertie Severson while dancing at Gene’s Barn. Delphin and Gertie were married on October 27, 1946 at West Moe Lutheran Church. To this union three children were born, Barbara, Pamela and John.

Delphin was an active participant in his community, serving on the West Moe Church Council, singing in the church choir and with the Moe Men’s Chorus. He was a director of the Douglas County Co-op and Brandon Co-op Creamery. Delphin was also a Moe Township supervisor, chairman and trustee of the West Moe Lutheran Church and active with the Brandon American Legion, Alexandria VFW and the Brandon Lions Club.

Delphin and Gertie farmed for 44 years. Farming was always his livelihood and in later years he enjoyed gardening and taking care of his flowers. Delphin also enjoyed fishing and deer hunting.

He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Gertie; and their three children, Barbara (Dennis) Gulbranson, Pamela (Byron) Terral and John (Joyce) Engel; grandchildren, Neal (Lori) Gulbranson, Joanna (Dave) Hansen, Sara (Ryan) Severson, Paul (Jamie) Terral, Abby (Toby) Allen, Amy Engel, Julia (Christian) Larson and Diana Engel; 11 great-grandchildren; sisters, Alice (Darwin) Schleicher of Ripon, Wisconsin and Joyce (Larry) Weber of Good Thunder.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Clemens and Donald; and sister, Erma Tiefel.

Funeral services were held September 28 at West Moe Lutheran Church near Brandon with Sarah Evenson officiating. Music was provided by organist Susan Peterson and niece Sharon Engel as soloist. Burial was at the church cemetery. Casket bearers were his eight grandchildren.

Memorials preferred to Brandon History Center or Douglas County Historical Society.

Arrangements are with Anderson Funeral Home in Alexandria; www.andersonfuneral.net.

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