Obituary: Donna Jean Engel

Donna Jean Engel, 94, of Waterloo, passed away on Thursday, January 1, 2026, at  Wellspring Living Health Center at Friendship Village surrounded by her family.  Donna was born on January 19, 1931, in Waterloo, to Gerald P. and Euarda M. (Kline) Lichty. She graduated from Orange High School in 1949. Donna married Raynard A. Engel on  April 14, 1950, in Waterloo; he preceded her in death on September 25, 2024.  Donna worked for Waterloo Public Schools as a Lunch Aide for many years. Her love  for knitting, crocheting, and needlework were reflected in the pieces she created that her family  will continue to cherish forever. She was an award-winning quilter, just recently winning a Blue  Ribbon for her quilt she created that was on display at the 2025 Cattle Congress. In her spare  time, Donna enjoyed reading, watching game shows, and HAM Radio-her call sign was  WAØEEX. Donna and Raynard were devoted members of South Waterloo Church of the Brethren where she served on the women's committee.  

She is also preceded in death by her parents, son, Steven Engel, sisters, Carol Jean Loy, and Peggy Jeffries, and infant brother, Lawrence Lichty.  

Donna is survived by her daughter, Susan (Jerry) Northey of Waterloo; sons, Mark (Barbara) Engel of Cedar Falls and Randy (Linda) Engel of Elk Run Heights; sister, Shirley (Bill) McLaury of Dunkerton; 9 grandchildren, 26 great grandchildren, 13 great-great grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.  

Services were held on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, at South Waterloo Church of the Brethren, with burial following at Orange Township Cemetery.  

Locke at Tower Park is serving the family. Please visit lockefuneralservices.com to offer your condolences.