Community Obituaries

Barbara Jean Engle

Barbara Jean Engle, 88, of Lewistown, passed away on May 20, 2023.  She was born on February 25, 1935 in Olathe, Colorado to George Jacob and Pauline (Krill) Abelhanz. She graduated from High School in Renton, Washington in 1953. 

Barbara married Donald K. Engle on April 25, 1953. They raised their family in Renton, WA. She believed in God and raised her daughters in the church. She taught Sunday School for many years.  For a short time, she helped raise her nephew, Don Sumpter of Orting, WA. Barbara worked for the Boeing Company in the wire shop and later as a clerk.  After retiring, they moved to Lewistown, Montana in 1989.

Barbara and Don enjoyed square dancing in the community after moving to Lewistown. She enjoyed sewing her many square dance dresses and hoop skirts.She also volunteered in the community for 25 years playing bass guitar and singing in many local bands. Those included Old Duffers, Kitchen Band, Groovy Gaffers, and Town and Country.  She and Don played at local nursing homes, Eagles Manor, and for the Senior dances.Barbara enjoyed woodworking and painting.  She made many toys, holiday decorations, home decorating items as well as many oil paintings for family and friends.  

Barbara is preceded in death by her parents, George and Pauline Abelhanz; sister, Catherine Holden; niece, Cindy Johnson; and nephew, David Holden. She is survived by her husband of 70 years, Don Engle of Lewistown, MT; daughters, Cathy (Tony) Abbott of Loveland, CO and Cheryl (Ben) Fry of Lewistown, MT; grandchildren, Amber (Juan) Gomez-Balanzar of Fort Collins, CO, Breanna (Ernest) Morse of Wellington, CO, Pamela (Omar) Ouedraogo of Normandy Park, WA, Jessica (Jim) Truckle of Billings, MT, Jason (Katie) Fry of Lewistown, MT, Donald Fry of Billings, MT; thirteen great grandchildren; siblings June Crookston of Renton, WA and George (Carol) Abelhanz of Rathdrum, ID; and many nieces and nephews.

Memorial Servicesfor Barbara will be held at First Christian Church on Tuesday, May 30, 2023 at 11:00 a.m.; Pastor Ron Youde is officiating.  A luncheon will follow the service in the fellowship hall.  A private committal service will be held.In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Central Montana Medical Center Home Health, or to a charity of your choice. 

Arrangements are under the care of Creel Funeral Home.  Barbara’s family and friends can share memories and condolences at www.creelfuneralhome.com