Engel, Richard A.Richard Alan Engel, 70, passed away June 10, 2017 unexpectedly at his home in the Town of Byron. He was born on February 5, 1947 the third son of the late Herman J. and Florence A. (Zangl) Engel in Fond du Lac.Rick was a 1965 graduate of LP Goodrich High School in Fond du Lac. Rick served his country in the U.S. Army from January 1967 through 1968, including a tour in Vietnam. Upon his return stateside, he served in the Army Reserves until 1973. He received the following medals: National Defense Service, Vietnam Service & Campaign, Army Commendation, two Overseas Service Bars and Sharpshooter Badge (Rifle M-14).Upon returning from Military Service, Rick continued his education and graduated from UW-Oshkosh with a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration in 1974. Rick married Kathleen "Katie" Pritchard in Milwaukee in 1974. The marriage ended in divorce in the early 1980's. Rick also earned a private pilot's license, enjoyed flying, owned and maintained two airplanes, one being experimental. In the late 1970's, he owned and operated "Ruby Begonia" a plant store and greenhouse in Madison. Following sale of the business, Rick then prowled around the Sierra Nevada Mountains panning for gold in mountain streams and operated snow grooming equipment at Homewood Ski Resort, Lake Tahoe, CA. Rick was recently self-employed as a driver for FDL Reporter, Action Advertiser and Country Visions Cooperative. Rick had a "green thumb." He was a house plant specialist and an avid gardener. He enjoyed selling his produce at Farmer's Markets and sharing excess produce with neighbors and friends. Rick is survived by two brothers, James H. Engel, Sacramento, CA and Ronald J. Engel, Fond du Lac, WI; numerous cousins, other relatives and friends.He is preceded in death by his parents and older brother, David J. Engel, formerly of Redundo Beach, CA.Services: The family will receive relatives and friends on Thursday, July 6, 2017 from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at Calvary Cemetery Chapel of the Risen Christ, 686 Fond du Lac Avenue, Fond du Lac. Military Honors will take place following the visitation.In lieu of flowers, donations may be directed to the family for distribution to local military organizations.Zacherl Funeral Home is serving the family. www.zacherlfuneralhome.com