Barbara Ann Engle (Simms)

Barbara was born on July 25, 1932, in Los Angeles, California, and was a lifelong resident of the state she loved. She attended Los Angeles Catholic Girls High School and spent her 94 years building a life centered around family, home, curiosity, and a good sense of humor.

Barbara loved to laugh. She was pragmatically nurturing, always ready to care for the people she loved, but in her own practical and determined way. She believed in doing what needed to be done and, more often than not, was willing to lead the way.

In her free time, Barbara enjoyed gardening, home improvement projects, and traveling. She loved working with her hands and improving the world immediately around her. Whether she was tending to a garden, tackling a project at home, or traveling somewhere new, she found purpose in being engaged with life.

Barbara is survived by her children: Patrick (Karen) Engle, Charles (Debora) Engle, Edward (Mary) Engle, Michael Engle, Donald Engle, and Maureen (Douglas) James; along with her many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her former husband and the father of her children, John “Jack” Andrew Engle; her son, Gerald Andrew Engle; her daughter, Marianne Whitmore; and her sister, Paulina Simms.

Barbara leaves behind a family that knew her love through her presence, her practical care, her determination, her laughter, and the countless things she did to make life better for the people around her.

She will be remembered in gardens, at family gatherings, and in the many stories her family will continue to tell.

Most of all, she will be remembered as a mother and grandmother who showed up, rolled up her sleeves, and made sure her family was taken care of.

Barbara will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.