Kathleen Patricia Engel (Maguire) Service Information

Kathleen Patricia Engel, of Ambler, PA died peacefully on Saturday, January 4, 2020, at her home surrounded by her family. She was 86.

She was the beloved wife of 57 years to John H. Engel. He was the love of her life, and their relationship was based on mutual respect and admiration.

Born in Philadelphia, PA, she was the daughter of the late Hugh and Alice Wesley Maguire. She was predeceased by her loving siblings, Dorothy Hosephros McNeil, Alice Strogen, Hugh Maguire, and Joan Brady.

In addition to her husband, she is also survived by her two daughters, Kathleen Tavolaro and her husband David of Ambler and Maureen Balitsaris and her husband Michael of Wayne.  “Nannie” was blessed with six grandchildren: Kevin, Riley, Quinn, Beau, Kiera, and Avery. She was adored by her extended family of nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

She had a deep love and dedication to our Lord; she and John were parishioners at Queen of Peace Church in Ardsley for 53 years before joining St. Alphonsus. Her faith was strong and unwavering—she always placed her worries in God’s capable hands.

Nothing gave Kathleen greater joy than being with her family. She served many roles in her life—daughter, sister, wife, mother, aunt, grandmother, dog grandma, friend, neighbor, volunteer, and care receiver. Motherhood was her true vocation, and she devoted herself to her girls. She affectionately attended to every detail of their upbringing, immersed herself in the school communities of Ancillae, the Mount, and Villanova, joyfully celebrated every milestone, and served as a constant beacon of love and support as they grew into adulthood. Being a grandmother brought more opportunities for Kathleen to showcase her unconditional love for her family. She never missed a sacrament, performance, or sporting event for her grandchildren.

Kathleen was humble, altruistic, patient, gentle, compassionate, and gracious. She laughed easily, listened earnestly, and loved abundantly.  A few of her favorite things included puzzles, Maguire cousin parties, Avalon, Villanova basketball, cards, singalongs, Broadway shows, dogs, and Whiskey Sours.

Caring for others was her trademark, and it was her husband and daughters’ great pride and honor to care for her as she faced the challenge of Alzheimer’s. Although our hearts are heavy, we take great comfort in knowing that Kathleen is liberated from her struggles, embraced by her loved ones who have gone before her, and resting in the presence of God.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend her viewing on Thursday, January 9, 2020 from 9:30 AM until her Funeral Mass 11:00 AM at St. Alphonsus Church, 33 Conwell Ave., Maple Glen, PA 19002.  Her interment will follow in Calvary Cemetery, W. Conshohocken, PA.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in her memory may be made to Alzheimer's Disease Association, 399 Market Street, Suite 102, Philadelphia, PA 19106.

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