Party planned for Libby vet's 104th birthday

There is cause for celebration and a party next week in Libby when World War II veteran Don Engel has his 104th birthday.

Engel, a former Noxon resident, who resides at the Libby Care Center, will celebrate his birthday during a party at 1 p.m. Saturday, May 2.

Organizer Greg Larson shared that the birthday party will be held in the Sunshine Room at the care center, celebrating Engel's birthday, service to our country, and his life. Invited attendees will include representatives from the VFW, Legion, media, Congress, Care Center, family, friends and anyone else wanting to pay tribute and celebrate with this grand WWII veteran.

Donald Wayne Engel was born May 2 1922. He joined the U.S. Air Force after high school. Early in his military career Don was sent to Europe to fight against Germany during WWII. He was part of a bomber team stationed out of England. There were times his plane would receive a bit of damage but, they were never shot down. 

In 1945, Don was appointed to the rank of 2nd lieutenant. In the 1950s Don went to college and earned his degree to become an electrical engineer. The Air Force, recognizing his degree, assigned him to work with air to air ballistics and missile bases throughout the U.S. 

Don retired from the Air Force Aug. 1, 1969 at the rank of Major.

Engel, a South Dakota native, returned to his home state after the war. But he then served in Texas before being transferred to Montana.

Outside his military career Don married Mervyn on May 8, 1943. They had two children, Patricia and James. When Don wasn’t on duty or with family, you would find him hiking, fishing and camping through out the Rocky Mountains. 

Don loved the mountains so much that once he retired, he moved onto a piece of land outside of Noxon, Montana. Don remained on the property cutting his own firewood, juicing his apples and enjoining life until he could no longer be self sufficient. 

He moved to Libby and now is enjoying his life at the Libby Care Center.

    Libby resident Don Engel and a co-pilot during World War II. (Courtesy photo)