Welcome

Posted by admin on November 3rd, 2007 — Posted in Blog Entry

This website is a tribute to the incredible life of Don “Daddy Cool” Eng. We’re starting with a few photos, information on the funeral service and a little bit of the history of his life. In the coming days we will add more photos, the video tribute for those that are not able to attend his funeral service, and an expanded history of his life.

Please feel free to post comments with your thoughts, feelings, fond memories and messages to the family. We only ask that you please include your full name and relationship to Don, whether it be cousin, uncle, co-worker, acquaintance or even friend of a grandchild.

Thank you for visiting.

43 Comments »

Comment by Brooke Kasper

Through My Eyes…
I have been Melanie’s (his middle daughter) best friend for 35 years. I have witnessed the incredible love and devotion this man has had for Melanie, his daughter and the rest of his wonderful family. There isn’t anything this man wouldn’t do for his family and his friends.
Through the years I have never seen such a beautiful relationship between a daughter and a father. What a precious bond that Melanie and Don had.
I can not think about Don, without also thinking about Jean, his beautiful and beloved wife. The two were inseparable and will leave such a legacy of love that I could only pray to ever see again in my life.
Don and Jean were second parents to me and with their love, acceptance and tenderness, that I will be eternally grateful for.
They showed me a true relationship with Jesus, living and breathing every breath that they had to serve Him and their family.
Don, I love you and will miss you… until we all meet again!
Love to all of you…Brooke

Posted on October 19, 2007 at 6:16 pm

Comment by Rocky

The candle that burns twice as bright, burns half as long……………Don was a bright light in my life…and a friend that i will miss very much….

Rocky

Posted on October 20, 2007 at 6:16 pm

Comment by Joe Ann Robinson

The staff on 7 west is praying for you. Ellie, Sherry, Joe Ann, Tracey, Francene. It was a honor to meet Mr. Eng and he was such a sweetheart. He was a patient that staff was taking care of that gave us more than we gave to him.

Joe Ann Robinson
Tulsa- Saint Francis Hospital

Posted on October 20, 2007 at 6:16 pm

Comment by Margie (Tuttle) Gwartney

To the Eng Family:
Thanks to all of you for posting the wonderful memories of Don.
Even though it is 55 years since our graduation, he still maintained that beautiful smile and he will always remain in our hearts. It was a pleasure to get to see him at our class reunions.
My love and condolences to you all!

Margie (Tuttle) Gwartney
Class of 1952.

Posted on October 20, 2007 at 6:17 pm

Comment by Cindy Erickson

To the Eng, Price, Emery Family,

I am so sorry to read of the loss of Mr. Eng. It has been my pleasure to be all of the grandchildren’s art teacher at one time or another and thru that relationship to observe your whole family. What a loving, beautiful example your family is to so many. I know that Don was a central part of all your lives and you will miss him so , so much. I am so very sorry for your loss. I pray for all your family as you grieve. May God give you comfort and may you feel His loving arms around you. May you grow even closer as a family.

With love in Jesus,
Cindy Erickson

Posted on October 21, 2007 at 6:19 pm

Comment by Cang Vo and Family

I find it hard to believe that I have lost my friend, Don, and that I will not see him again. My whole family will feel this loss. We talked a lot with Don when he would come in to the shop. Jean, you will always be our friend and we want you to keep in touch with us and also let us know if we can help you in any way. We are very saddened about your loss.

Cang Vo and Family

Posted on October 21, 2007 at 6:20 pm

Comment by Audrey Penner

Our love and prayers are with our family at this sad time. Don truly did leave a wonderful legacy, and we are looking forward to dancing with him in the future! Love to all,

Audrey Penner

Posted on October 21, 2007 at 6:20 pm

Comment by Tom Maher

I was truly saddened when Bill called me with the news of your Dad’s passing. I’m comforted to know your exceptional faith will help you through this tough time, but I also know that you will miss him greatly. Our sympathies are extended to you and your entire family.

Your dad was an exceptional person and I always enjoyed his company. I am fortunate that you invited us to Stephanie’s back in May to celebrate Allison’s graduation, since I was able to spend some time with your Dad. Every time we play the abundance of music he spent time recording for us, I think of him. Nat King Cole, Linda Rondstadt, Dean Martin, Frank Sinatra and of course Michael Buble and many others. Don always showed a genuine appreciation and interest in Maria’s art and I know it meant a lot to her.

It is obvious how much Don loved his family and I know he will be missed. The consummate family man and a role model for many of us. Please tell Jean, Melanie, Stephanie, Michael, Brian, Allison and Katie that we are thinking of each and every one of you and pray for your health and strength during this time of loss.

With All our Love,

Tom & Maria

Posted on October 21, 2007 at 6:21 pm

Comment by Mary K Rottschaefer

I grew up next door to the Engs. I remember mon and dad loving to go to their resturant. Very sorry for your familes loss…..

Mary K Rottschaefer (Keithline)

Posted on October 21, 2007 at 6:24 pm

Comment by Carl and Carlene Quist

We thought so much of Don and wanted you to know that we are thinking of your family at this time of sadness. Carl and

Carlene Quist
Formerly of Baron’s Furniture

Posted on October 21, 2007 at 6:25 pm

Comment by Sue Ingle Wantland

October 20, 2007
Don grew up across the street from his wonderful wife, Jean. Jean and I used to walk each other home over and over. She and Don lived on Delaware Pl. and I lived on Delaware. Don couldn’t resist her walking by and kept moving the newspaper closer to the sidewalk. He finally got it right on the sidewalk and worked up the nerve to ask Jean out. The rest, as they say, is history. What a wonderful marriage and history. We all have been blessed by our wonderful luck to live so closely together. We have lived within two miles of each other all of our lives. I love and honor Jean and Don and their wonderful children, Debi, Melanie, Stephanie and Michael and their wonderful families. I am so thankful that Debi is my God daughter. With love always, Sue Ingle Wantland

Posted on October 21, 2007 at 6:26 pm

Comment by Kay Richmond

Miss Jean,

My heart grieves with you in this time of loss but I also celebrate with you the knowledge that Mr. Don is with the Heavenly Father. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your lovely family.

Kay Richmond
Fort Smith, AR

Posted on October 22, 2007 at 6:27 pm

Comment by Gene Bledsoe

To the Eng, Price, and Emery Family,
I was so saddened to hear of your loss. Two words immediately came to mind…
SMILE and HEART
Don had the most contagious smile I have ever seen. You had to smile when you were around him.
Don had the kindest, most sincere heart God has ever put in a man. You could not help but love the man.
He loved his family more than anything. It was very obvious when you were around any member of his family. Hands down, the warmest home I have ever stepped foot in. Don and Jean stamped each of his children with this same smile, heart, love, and kindness.
I didn’t know Don as well as I should have. But a man only had to meet Don Eng one time to know him. I know how much you miss Don. But, think of the smile on his face now!! I love and miss you all,
Gene Bledsoe

Posted on October 22, 2007 at 6:27 pm

Comment by Natasha Phillips

Just wanted to let everyone in the family know that my thoughts and prayers are with you. The service today was beautiful and inspirational. It was very inspiring to hear stories about your father, Don. He sounds like he was an absolutely amazing man, father, husband, and follower of Christ. What a treasure to know with confidence that you will meet again in Heaven. God bless and may God be your comforter in this time of mourning.

Natasha Phillips
(co-worker of Michael Eng)

Posted on October 22, 2007 at 6:28 pm

Comment by Barbara Ballard Blackburn

My condolences go to Don’s family. I knew him from Longfellow grade school. He and my brother Donald Ballard were best friends. They used to play on the roof of the Mandarin. My mother was his Den Mother. My prayers are with you.

Barbara Ballard Blackburn
Broken Arrow, OK

Posted on October 22, 2007 at 6:29 pm

Comment by George DeShazo

We are sorry for the loss of your loved one, Don. We will keep your family in our prayers.

George and Ruth DeShazo
Central Class of 52
Tulsa, OK

Posted on October 22, 2007 at 6:30 pm

Comment by Teresa Zeigler Bechtelheimer

Don Eng will always be one of my favorite people and I will always remember him forever. He always had that wonderful smile on his face. I give my condolences to his wonderful family and our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. Love to all,

Teresa Zeigler Bechtelheimer
Stillwater, OK

Posted on October 22, 2007 at 6:31 pm

Comment by Gina Schroeder

Debi,
I was so sorry to hear about your dad. I know how close you were. My prayers are with you and your family.

Gina Schroeder

Posted on October 22, 2007 at 6:32 pm

Comment by Dave Danzi

Daddy Cool, I will miss our talks about music and family. You will always be apart of my spirit. Thank you for all your blessings and may our Lord bless you in heaven with a new pair of dance shoes and some great jazz…tell Frank you did it your way…Mr.Dj

Dave Danzi
Tulsa, OK

Posted on October 22, 2007 at 6:33 pm

Comment by Kay Herwig Revel

Jean, I was saddened to learn of Don’s passing. I always enjoyed watching the two of you dance at our CHS reunions. Love and blessings to you and your family.

Kay Herwig Revell
Edmond, OK

Posted on October 22, 2007 at 6:33 pm

Comment by Janelle Gragg

I was so sorry to hear of the loss of our dear Mr. Eng. I so enjoyed coming by the house and having chats with him about travel, music, family, etc. I will forever see his smiling face walking out to the mailbox and giving that friendly wave as I pass by. He was a very kind and thoughtful man and will be greatly missed.

Janelle Gragg
His mail carrier

Posted on October 22, 2007 at 6:34 pm

Comment by Tony Winkle

Sorry for your loss I know how much his children loved him and how much he loved them.

Tony Winkle
Tulsa, OK

Posted on October 22, 2007 at 6:35 pm

Comment by Marilyn Davis

Dear Melanie and Stepnanie, What a very sad time for you two beautiful girls! I know you have always been so close to your dad, as I was to mine. It was a joy for me to get to meet him on several occasions. “Daddy Cool” couldn’t be a more perfect name!And what a full and happy life he lived! Please know how very much you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. My prayer for you is that God will give you the extra strength you need to get through this most difficult time. Time is a merciful healer! I promise you, life will be beautiful again!

With love and understanding,

Marilyn

Posted on October 22, 2007 at 9:27 pm

Comment by John & Jeanne Tyler

Don was a man of integrity and vision. Enjoyed stopping by his building projects and talking about the Lord. Without doubt he was one of Tulsa’s premiere builders, both naturally and supernaturally. Our condolences to the family as he rests in the hands of the Lord.

John Tyler & family
Architectural Roofing & Sheet Metal

Posted on October 22, 2007 at 9:29 pm

Comment by Chris Dickason

Daddy Cool,

Hey, it’s Chris, your son’s best friend. I went to your funeral today, and have to say it was the best one I have ever been to in my life. And that is saying a lot, I don’t like them very much. I know you were looking down and enjoying it yourself. The family did a great job putting it together. The eulogy by Michael, the photo show by the sisters, the singers, and the outpouring of love around was all just so amazing.

I just want to thank you for everything you have given me, namely that incredible family that has been a part of my life for the past 22 years, since I was a silly 15 year old boy staying at your house until the wee hours and eating all your pizza rolls. You and Mama have always been a second family to me, and I just want to thank you for letting me be a part of your life.

Save a place for me on the beach, that’s my favorite place too. Until then, I will miss you.

Love,
Chris Dickason

Posted on October 22, 2007 at 9:35 pm

Comment by Paul Hockett

Hi Jean,

I am so sorry about Don’s passing. I didn’t even know he was ill until I read about it in the newspaper.
Shirley and I were so pleased to see the large turn-out for his funeral and I know that was comforting to you and the kids.

As you know, Don and I went back together a long way beginning when we both went into the payroll section at DX as clerks in 1961. He and I shared a lot of memories including working together, LONG talks after work as we walked to where we parked our cars (on the street – neither of us could afford the “parking lot”), working on “my” car at your house one time during which we “warped” the back wheel, returning a sewing machine that you folks had purchased from a door-to-door salesman, memories of Japan we shared, and so forth. I also faintly remember Don and I and his brother Clarence going rabbit hunting one time. I remember well the day he told me he was going to leave DX – I was concerned that he was making a bad decision (little did I know). (I think his original plan was to sell light fixtures to commercial applications.) And, how hard he worked to convince the developer of (new) Shadow Mountain to sell him some of the lots when they really didn’t want to because he wasn’t “established”.

Knowing Don was a pleasure and he will continue to live in my memory as he will in so many others’. God Bless you and your family.

Posted on October 23, 2007 at 9:36 pm

Comment by Tom Daman

Melanie, Stehanie,Debi & Michael; I’m am so sorry to hear about the lost of your father, he was a great man. I know he loved you all and your mother very much. Today will be a tough day for all of you. I pray that God will put his arms around all of you and that you will feel his love and comfort. Take care of your mother, she will need you all.

God Bless
Tom Daman

Posted on October 23, 2007 at 9:36 pm

Comment by Veronica Flournoy

Sending our thoughts of comfort and peace during this time of sadness and loss to your family, please accept our condolences. Don was a friend of our father; Thomas Dan Shaw. They became childhood friends in middle school, continuing the relationship well into their years as adults, parents and grandparents. Don was a true confidant to Dan Shaw, always sharing his generous and loyal heart, full of God’s love.

Veronica Flournoy
Hollister, California

Posted on October 23, 2007 at 9:36 pm

Comment by Kerry Page

Jean, I just wanted you to know I am thinking of you and your family during this time. It was always so wonderful to watch you and your love for Don & Dr. Capehart. I know the girls and your son have surrounded you and reminded you of how much you are loved and needed by your family. God Bless You & Your Family.

Kerry Page
Formerly of Dr. Jan Cobble’s Office

Posted on October 23, 2007 at 9:37 pm

Comment by Jeanne & Frank Winford

Dear Jean – Hope you remember Frank & I and dancing in your Mom & Dad’s basement – So sorry about Don he was a sweet person and so kind to everyone. Love you.

Jeanne & Frank Winford
Wagoner, OK

Posted on October 23, 2007 at 9:37 pm

Comment by Don & Judy Stephens

We were saddened to hear of Don’s passing.

I first met Don in 1977 or so through our mutual friends Jerry and Jan Champion. Later, I was in the van conversion business and I joined with Don and other Christians the Pacesetter business referral organization. We met weekly and shared referrals and tips to other businesses. Don was in the real estate business. We shared many ideas and plans for business development. He was always willing and eager to help with his advise. Each time our paths crossed over the years, he always had a huge grin and was eager to shake hands and ask how we were doing and what had we been up to.

Of course we met Jean and the children at church or Christian events and have tried to keep track of the family as it grew.

Our prayers for Jean, children and grandchildren. I know he will be missed. We offer our prayers and assistance.

We will miss him. We love you guys.

Don and Judy Stephens
918-760-4253

Posted on October 23, 2007 at 9:38 pm

Comment by Sonny Gray

My time with Don was short but very meaningful. We had many conversations about carpentry, photography, model trains, and many other things in which we shared an interest.

I will fondly remember looking out from the bandstand seeing Don and Jean dancing up a storm. What a joyful man and lovely couple.

I will miss him, Sonny

Posted on October 24, 2007 at 9:38 pm

Comment by Denna Gray

The Tie that Binds

I first knew Don through Daddy who worked with Don at Sun Oil Company. Daddy spoke very highly of Don’s abilities but most of all his qualities as a Christian friend, husband and father.

In 1964 both Donna and I married. NO ONE but Don could be trusted to take our wedding pictures.

Later, Michael, Greg, Jenny, and Sasha went to Holland Hall together.

When Sasha and Michael married, we all truly became family.

Mother, Daddy, and Don are together waiting for us and our tie will remain unbroken.

Don’s love will always remain in our hearts. Love, Denna

Posted on October 24, 2007 at 9:39 pm

Comment by Cyndi Jeong

I’m so sorry to hear of your loss. Since Grandfather Eng’s passing, seems harder to get everyone together. Hoping to see many of the family at Al & Lucy’s. Hopefully we’ll all stay in touch.

Best Regards, Cyndi
San Francisco

Posted on October 26, 2007 at 9:39 pm

Comment by Jim Norwood

Dear Friends and Family of Don,

Today I learned of Don’s passing, and I was so saddened by the news.

Although I only had a casual business relationship with Don, I always counted him as a friend. It always seemed to take longer to complete a transaction with him because he was such a joyful and friendly soul, and he was such a pleasure to visit with.

I’ve had a great number of business acquaintances over the years, but I can think of very few that touched me in the way Don did.

I just got a copy of the program from the services from Jean. I can tell from that and from this website that Don had so many wonderful friends and a very, very special family. And that does not suprise me one bit.

I always wanted to be able to spend more time with Don, to share our thoughts about photography or cars or the places we’d visited. But it seems our already busy lives kept us mostly apart until business would bring us together again for a brief moment.

I know Don is in heaven now for eternity, and I pray that I’ll get there one day too, and that we can finally have the kind of friendship that I always wanted with him.

God bless you all. Your special man will be missed.

Jim Norwood,
One of the many that Don touched.

Posted on October 26, 2007 at 9:51 pm

Comment by Kasey Price

Daddycool was so good to everybody. Every person he was with had their lives touched forever. He played an important role in my life and I will never forget him. One of my favorite memories was when we would sit on the couch and hold hands and I would tell him about my day and he would tell me stories when he was a boy. One time he was telling me a story, whenever he was trying to help his cousin out before her piano recitle and he was ironing her dress and he left it on one spot to long and scortched it, we just laughed and laughed, I heard that story many many times and each time it was just funnier and funnier. I loved Daddycool and he will always be in my heart forever!

Posted on November 1, 2007 at 9:52 pm

Comment by zac

daddycool an awesome great man he will allways be in are hearrts i remember a time he wanted me to see a movie with me it was forest gump one day we were playing ping pong and it reminded him of that movie so we watched it together and we cracked up about when bubba told forest about all the kinds of shrimp and we laughed about how forest could hit the ball so hard i have so many great memories together

Posted on November 5, 2007 at 9:52 pm

Comment by Terry Harbaugh

Dear Stephanie,

I just wanted to take a moment and tell you how very sorry we are about the loss of your dad. If you didn’t already know, I’m sure you are realizing how many people thought he was an incredible man. Tim and I are no exception. We experienced first hand his generosity and kindness and if I haven’t told you already, I wanted to share this story with you.

When he was building our house, the colors I began to choose were similar to a house he was also building in Signal Hill. He had the idea of taking us over there so I could see first hand the colors I was choosing, since they appeared so to be identical. We walked into the house and I could see immediately the wonderful color choices he had helped me make. I also noticed how the tile was laid at a diagonal and commented that was what I wanted for my house, too. He sadly expressed that to lay the tile diagonally was quite a bit more expensive because of the waste involved and when he had figured the price of our house, he had only figured the cost of laying the tile straight. he must have noticed the disappointment on my face, but I agreed to the way he had already figured the price. Nothing more was discussed about it and he continued working on our house. I wish he could have seen the extreme surprise & delight on my face when i walked in one day and saw my tile floor. It was laid exactly as the Signal Hill house and it couldn’t have looked any more beautiful. As you might expect, your dad didn’t charge us a dime more than the price he had already quoted. this is just one example of several wonderful blessings he provided for us as he built our house.

As I write this note, we are in the middle of negotiating the sale of our current home and if successful, we will again be buying a “Don Eng Home”. We are so excited about the opportunity to again be in such a wonderfully built home, not only because of its quality, but also because we know the love and care he put into each house he built. We both admired and respected your dad and it was such an honor and privilege to know him.

We are thinking and praying for you and your family. If there is anything you need, or if you just want to talk, please know you are welcome anytime.

Love,
Tim & Terry Harbaugh

Posted on November 14, 2007 at 9:53 pm

Comment by Allison Emery

Daddy Cool,
Happy Thanksgiving.
We will miss you today, Love you.

Posted on November 22, 2007 at 9:54 pm

Comment by zac price

we love you daddycool you are the best ever i pray that you have a wonderful thanksgiving you will always be in our hearts!!!!!

Posted on November 22, 2007 at 9:54 pm

Comment by Kasey

Hi DaddyCool,
I miss you. There is so much I wish I could be telling you today, and hear how your day was. I love you so so much.

Posted on November 28, 2007 at 9:55 pm

Comment by Steve Champion

Tonight, I’m thinking of the Don and the Eng family for Christmas. There’s nothing better than watching the Eng family exchange gifts near midnight and the love in the enitre room. Don’s face and smile was remarkable on this day.

Lots of love and best wishes on this day.

Sjc

Posted on December 24, 2007 at 9:57 pm

Comment by Kasey

MERRY CHRISTMAS DADDYCOOL! I love you so much. So far, it has been so hard without you here, but I try to imangine what your Christmas is like up in heaven. I love you, and will be thinking about you all day. Merry Christmas!

Posted on December 25, 2007 at 9:59 pm

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