Michael Engler 1954-2024

Michael Eugene Engler, 70, of Topeka, died Sunday, Sept. 15, 2024, at home and surrounded by loved ones.

Michael was born on Feb. 7, 1954, in Topeka, to Glen and Edna (Wilkins) Engler. He graduated from Washburn Rural High School. In 1977, he earned his bachelor of landscape architecture degree from Kansas State University. He had an esteemed 34-year career with Bartlett and West Engineers, providing an enduring impact on decades of community growth in Topeka and surrounding areas.

Michael was a deeply beloved husband, father, grandfather, cousin, colleague, hunting buddy and friend. In 1978, he married Lisa Ann Myers. They created a nurturing homestead that remains an anchor point for family.

Throughout his life, Michael was an ardent outdoorsman and this joy was a bond across family and friends. He exemplified a zeal for life and reveled in shared stories of travel, hunting, fishing and farming adventures with a wide group of friends across continents. He was an engaged family man who was as a tutor, coach and inspiring role model.

Amongst his children and grandchildren, he fostered family connectivity and yet uniquely celebrated each through thoughtful traditions of fishing and hunting trips, vacations, pen pal letters, games and opportunities to name new calves. As a testament to a fulfilled and well-lived life, his journal entry upon reflection of what he could’ve made more time for was simply a question mark.

Michael was predeceased by his parents. He is survived by his wife, Lisa; his three children, Jessica (husband Jose), Ila (husband Brett) and Penny (husband Daniel); and five grandchildren, Isla, Giselle, Daniel, Evelyn and Lincoln.

Memories were shared during his Celebration of Life on Thursday, Sept. 19. To leave a message for his family online or to donate a tree in his memory, please visit www.PPDFuneral.com

(PAID OBITUARY)