Herbert Engle is believed to be the oldest man living in Michigan
and was honored by Caring Circle on September 22 for National
Centenarian Day. He was born in Russia in 1907 and immigrated
to Chicago in 1928 where he worked at Western Electric
Manufacturing Company for five years. His family then relocated
to Berrien Springs where Herbert still resides in the farmhouse
that originally belonged to his parents. Herbert earned a degree
in engineering from the University of Scranton in Pennsylvania
through a college-by-mail program. He worked at Whirlpool
Corporation for over 40 years helping to create many of the original
household appliances we know today.
Herbert is the father of six children, all of whom are still living.
He currently resides with his caregiver and daughter Esther, 83.
Esther receives help caring for Herbert from Charsie Nealey, RN,
BSN, a nurse at Caring Circle, who began visiting the family’s
home in March of 2016 and continues to provide assistance
with medications, medical assessments, and social interaction.
In addition to Herbert, Caring Circle provides care for a number of
centenarian patients throughout Berrien County, including Lola
Rockwell, 100, of Berrien Springs; Joseph Menser, 103, who resides
at the Merlin and Carolyn Hanson Hospice Center; and Viola
Bomke, 107, of Benton Harbor.
When asked about
her longevity, Lola
stated, “Having a
large extended
family, knowing your
children, grandchildren,
great-grandchildren,
and great-greatgrandchildren,
and
having that love helps
you live a long and
happy life.”
Joseph, when asked about enjoying life said, “You don’t have to
leave the country to see amazing things. You can stay right here
at home and see everything you want to see.”
Viola shared beautiful stories of a simpler time growing up when
people walked most places, the roads were all dirt, the fields
were plowed by horses, and the closest stream was not only the
household’s main source of fresh water, but also where people
would store milk and butter to keep it cold.
Thank you centenarians for sharing your life experiences and
wonderful stories!