With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of David Engel, a beloved husband, father, son, brother, friend, and educator, on August 24, 2024. Born on December 24, 1975, David’s journey through life was marked by his profound and unwavering love for his family and his passions for theater, writing, and education.
David was a dedicated English and Theater teacher at Fayetteville-Manlius High School in Manlius, New York. He affected countless lives through his work, inspiring students with his creativity, compassion, and outrageous sense of humor that united everyone around him. His classroom and theater stage were places of exploration, where students were encouraged to express themselves and find their voices.
In August of 2008, David married the love of his life, Nikki (Visioni) Engel, and together they created a life filled with love, laughter, and devotion. David’s love for Nikki was profound, and she was his true partner in every sense of the word. His daughters, Josephine and Cecilia were the center of his universe. David was a father who cherished every moment with his girls, from bedtime stories to guiding them through life’s many lessons. He found joy in watching them grow, and his greatest pride was in the incredible young women they were becoming. His love for his family was the foundation of all that he did.
David had a brilliant mind, coupled with a unique ability to make people laugh. Whether through his sharp wit, spontaneous humor, or clever storytelling, he brought laughter to everyone around him. His infectious sense of humor and creative spirit were as much a part of him as his love for his family. Those who had the privilege of knowing David will remember him, not only for his kindness, patience, and compassion but also for his ability to light up a room with his presence.
David’s memory will live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and students. His boundless love for his family, theater, writing, and his remarkable ability to bring laughter into the lives of others will never be forgotten. As Shakespeare poignantly wrote, “Now cracks a noble heart. Good night, sweet prince, and flights of angels sing thee to thy rest.”
Calling hours will be from 3 PM to 7 PM on Friday, August 30 at St. Ann’s Church, 104 Academy St, Manlius. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, August 31 at St. Ann’s Church.
David is survived by his loving wife, Nikki, and their daughters, Josephine and Cecilia. He is also survived by his parents, Brenda Engel of Valley Park, Missouri, Creighton and Melissa Engel of Salem, Illinois; his sister, Aimee Larrain of Chantilly, Virginia; brothers, Drew Engel of Crestwood, Missouri, Darren Engel of Salem, Illinois and Dirk Engel of Wentzville, Missouri; his father-in-law, Guido Visioni and mother-in-law, Barbara Visioni of Clay, New York; and 22 nieces and nephews who adored him.
In lieu of flowers, extended family has provided this link https://www.gofundme.com/f/in-memory-of-david-engel to help with Josephine and Cecilia’s education.
