Daniel Aaron Engelking

Daniel Aaron Engelking, age 37, of Nacogdoches passed away on Thursday, November 4, 2021, in Houston. He was born September 3, 1984 in Nacogdoches, Texas to parents Timothy Engelking and Constance (Atutis) Engelking.

Dan was a graduate of the Central Heights High School Class of 2002.

He loved the outdoors; camping, mountain biking and hiking were some of his favorite pastimes. One of Dan’s proudest achievements was accomplishing the rank of Eagle Scout with Troop 100 of Nacogdoches. One of his final community service projects for his Eagle Scout ranking was an outdoor amphitheater-style classroom built on the grounds of Central Heights ISD.

Dan was fun to be around and loved spending time with his brothers. He loved music and was a self taught guitar player. After accepting Christ into his heart, he could be found playing old hymns and leading worship at various churches between Nacogdoches & Tyler, Texas.

He graduated from Stephen F. Austin State University in 2006 with a bachelor’s degree in Business. Dan fell in love with his wife Sara while attending SFA. Shortly thereafter, he became a graphic designer and small business owner in Tyler. He and Sara married in December 2008, and their daughter Lauren was born in 2013. They were involved members of Tyler Christian Fellowship Church in Tyler, TX. They enjoyed travels to state parks in Arkansas and Oklahoma and loved camping, kayaking and fishing.

Although Dan’s life was marked by a painful struggle with mental illness, we have found comfort and solace knowing that he is now dancing in the arms of Jesus and is no longer suffering.

One way that you can help break the stigma of mental illness is by learning to recognize the early warning signs. Organizations such as NAMI (National Alliance of Mental Health) are a great resource for education. Additionally, please consider learning more about the Village Nac. (A 501c3-established institution that offers a place where those who suffer from chronic mental health issues and homelessness can begin to heal and live more fulfilling lives).

Daniel is survived by his wife Sara, his daughter Lauren, his parents Timothy and Constance, and his brothers: Paul & Danielle Engelking with sons Gabriel & Sawyer, Matthew & Lauren Engelking with sons Noah, Shepherd, & daughter Eliza, and Samuel & Kamri Engelking with son Lawson and daughter Laney.

A memorial celebration will be held at 4:00pm Tuesday, November 23, 2021 at Tyler Christian Fellowship in Tyler, Texas. A private graveside service for family and close friends will occur in Nacogdoches Friday, November 26th at 4pm at Old North Church Cemetery.

Memorial donations may be made to The Village Nac, 1188 CR 823, Nacogdoches, Texas 75964.

Arrangements are under the direction of Cason Monk-Metcalf Funeral Directors, Nacogdoches.