Neva Engel

Neva M. Engel, 88, a lifelong resident of Monroe, went home to be with the Lord on Tuesday, October 25, 2011 in Magnum Health and Rehab in Monroe, where she had made her home for the past 4 years. Born on April 19, 1923 in Monroe, Neva was the daughter of the late John and Jennie (Cacioppo) Castellese. Neva was an excellent cook of many types of Italian foods and often prepared them for her grandchildren’s’ class or sports team. She especially enjoyed baking and was known for her banana cakes. Neva worked at the Moose Lodge #884 for 47 years, retiring in 2001. She had also worked as an upholsterer for La-Z-Boy for 13 years and at Ace Paper Company. An avid card player, Neva played in many card clubs, and on the Moose Lodge euchre league. She also bowled on many leagues over the years. She was a member of St. Michael Catholic Church in Monroe and Women of the Moose, chapter #714, from which she recently earned her 55 year membership pin. There was nothing Neva loved more than being with her family. Neva is survived by 2 loving daughters; Joanne Kropaczewski of Monroe, and Susan (Randy) Fisk of LaSalle, 5 cherished grandchildren; Greg (Stephanie) Redmon, Justin Redmon, Jared (Amata) Redmon, Heidi (Eric) Rice and Emily (Carlos) Vargas and 12 treasured great grandchildren as well as many step-grand children and step great grandchildren. Also surviving are 2 brothers, Stephen Castellese and Frank (Clara) Castellese, and 2 sisters, Ann Didario and Theresa (Tony) Bacarella. In addition to her parents, Neva was preceded in death by 2 brothers; Alex and John Castellese and 2 sisters; Josephine Germani and Mary Pilat, and her son in law Jim Kropaczewski. Visitation will be Sunday from 1-8 at Bacarella Funeral Home, 1201 S. Telegraph Rd, Monroe, where the Women of the Moose will honor Neva at 6:00 PM. On Monday, October 31, 2011 there will be services at the funeral home at 11:00 AM, followed by interment at St. Joseph Cemetery in Monroe. The family wishes to thank the wonderful staff at Magnum for their love and care. They had truly become an important part of her life and a part of her family. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to Mercy Memorial Hospice, or the Employee Fund at Magnum.