Islander spotlight: Bill and Rosie Engel
Staff Report
Bill and Rosie Engel have reached a milestone few couples achieve. The couple was married on Aug. 28, 1960, and have since made an impact on so many lives.
The couple’s first date was in the sixth grade when they attended a dance together. They dated on and off all through high school before getting married at the Little White Chapel in Las Vegas. Kenny and Virginia Beach were their best man and maid of honor.
Bill moved to Catalina at the age of 8. Rosie grew up on the island and the family is now in its fifth generation (their great grandchildren) of islanders. Bill and Rosie raised five children, who now have five spouses. They are, from oldest to youngest, Kenny (Patti), Katrina (Bob), Brenda (Richard), Billy (Angela) and Bobby (Nicole). They now have 14 grandchildren and nine great grandchildren.
Their children say that the example the couple set and love they provided has created a strong family bond.
“This family continues to thrive because of their example of true and unconditional love for each other and their family,” daughter Katrina Lee said.
Bill worked as a crane operator at the quarry for Connolly Pacific, while Rosie was a stay-at-home mom, taking care of the family.
As the family grew, Bill and Rosie provided a welcoming home for friends and visitors. Their door was always open to any of our friends or family that needed a place to stay, Katrina noted.
And, as the children got married, each new addition to the family received the same love and support.
Not only was Rosie a wife and mother, she was crowned Miss Flying Fish and Miss Catalina. Each time, Bill escorted her during the crowning.
Their children say the legacy of their parents are being passed down through their children and grandchildren.
The family had hoped to celebrate the milestone in a big way, but COVID has put that on hold.
They will make the best of it and possibly celebrate at a later date.
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