Did you ever want to go to church not only to get a special message from the pastor but because you knew that you would be greeted and welcomed by the “Deacon of Joy” Don Engle?

Don wasn't a well known politician or some big time well known businessman but he was a true servant of God and always displayed his love for Christ and everyone who was fortunate enough to meet him immediately knew he would become your friend.

Known for possessing a great sense of humor Don and the Engle family lived in Sullivan County for many years and last made their home in the Roscoe area before moving several years ago to the Windsor NY area.

Fighting health issues for a number of years Don entered the Gates of Heaven on October 16 surrounded by his wife Lynda and family.

Don was born on September 1, 1941 in Binghamton. He was predeceased by his parents, Laura and Richard Engle and siblings, Richard, Louise and Robert.

Don was best known in his church activities as he always showed his love for Christ.

He served in the United States Navy from 1960-1964 and later worked at Singer Link where he was involved with building the simulators that were used for the Apollo 11-13 missions. Following that he enjoyed his career at United Parcel Service which he later retired from.

Don was proud to be a “jack of all trades and master of none.”

He is survived by his wife of 43 years, Lynda Engle and his siblings, Lois, Louise and Robert and a loving dad to Mark Engle and Ken Engle.

One can never forget the great memories of Don where you always found him smiling and making others smile. He was blessed with 19 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren.

A celebration of Don's life will be held on Sunday, November 17 at 2 p.m. at the Windsor Free Methodist Church at 103 Main Street, Windsor, NY.

Donations in memory of Don can be made to: Delta Lake Bible Conference Center, 6420 Pillmore Drive, Rome, NY 13440 (in memory of Donald Engle.)

Ed Townsend provides year around "Beyond The News"coverage in this column with over 60-years of photojournalism analysis and insight. The column can also be read on his Web blog at http://bght.blogspot.com