Robert E. Engle, 85, of Somerville, passed away peacefully on Monday, February 6, 2023, at his residence. The funeral service will be Friday, February 10, 2023, at 1:00 PM at Peck Funeral Home with Gary Dobbs officiating. Burial will be at Shoal Creek Cemetery, with military honors. Visitation will be Friday from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM at the funeral home.
Mr. Engle was born March 22, 1937, in Morgan County to Robert “Cad” Engle and Nannie Mae Pepper Engle, was raised in the Austinville community of Morgan County, and was lovingly known as “Bob” to family and friends.
He married the love of his life, Shirley Narmore, on February 3, 1956 prior to his enlistment in the U.S. Navy. He proudly served four years in the Navy on board the USS Boxer, and an additional two years in the Naval Reserves. While serving on board the USS Boxer, Mr. Engle participated in the Cold War secret testing of hydrogen bombs in the Pacific Ocean called Operation Hardtack I, resulting in him becoming known as an “Atomic Veteran” due to the radiation exposure. After receiving an Honorable Discharge with rank of BT2, Mr. Engle settled with his family in Somerville, Alabama.
In July 2022 Congress passed the Atomic Veterans Service Medal that recognizes the service and sacrifice of the Atomic Veterans, and on January 23rd, Morgan County Commission Chairman Ray Long, presented the medal along with the Atomic Veterans Service Certificate to Mr. Engle at his residence.
Prior to his retirement Mr. Engle was employed with 3M as Maintenance Supervisor, owner of Engle’s Catfish Pond, and owner of Standard Oil Service Station in Decatur. He was dedicated to serving his community by actively being involved in the preservation of the Historic Somerville Courthouse as a charter member of the Somerville Preservation Commission, served as Somerville City Councilman, worked to establish a Health Clinic in Somerville, and Somerville Volunteer Firefighter.
He was a member of Oak Forest Baptist Church.
Bob will be remembered for his witty humor, pranks, deep love for family, strong work ethic, and his perseverance and strength to continue life running his mini farm after a major stroke that severely affected his speech and right side of his body. He enjoyed the farm life raising chickens, quail, cows, horses, goats, and planting and working a garden.
Preceding him in death were his parents, wife of 57 years, Shirley Engle, sons Tony Engle and Mike Engle; brothers James “Buddy” Engle, Roy Engle, and Marvin Engle. Sisters Mary Jane Gerstman, Lillie Mae Siniard, Marguerite Knighten, Minnie Lee Nelms, Gay Nell Kent, and Ruth Terry.
He is survived by his sons, Martin W. Engle and wife Sudonda, Jeffery Scott Engle and wife Sharon, and Melinda Engle, widow of son Mike. Grandchildren Jeremiah Engle, Clay Bryant, Christopher Bryant, Brandon Bryant, Chad Tribble, and Kari Engle. Eleven great-grandchildren, and host of nieces and nephews who were more like his brothers and sisters due to closeness in age.
Pallbearers will be his grandsons, and great-grandson Tripper Engle.
Heartfelt appreciation to Steve Fulghum, Hospice Of The Valley staff, and Laura Bryant for the gentle care given to Mr. Engle.
