Richard Eric Engles, 83, Leaves a Legacy of Family, Flight, and Adventure

CROWNSVILLE, MD – Born on May 31, 1942, in Providence, Rhode Island, to Helen Gill Engles and Robert Thomas Engles, Rick grew up with a competitive spirit, a love of the water, and a natural ease with people that stayed with him throughout his life. Much of his youth was spent sailing in Nantucket, where his lifelong connection to the sea first took root.

Rick graduated from Providence Country Day School in 1960, attended Suffield Academy in 1961, and went on to earn his degree from Union College in Schenectady, New York. A gifted and determined athlete, he was a state wrestling champion and competed at a high level throughout his school years. He also played football and lacrosse, bringing the same drive and discipline to both.

Rick’s professional life reflected his confidence, charisma, and entrepreneurial spirit. He began his career with American Airlines at Kennedy Airport before moving into corporate aviation. From 1970 to 1976, he served as Vice President of Sales for Executive Jet Aviation. In 1976, he joined British Aerospace as Director of Corporate Aircraft in North America, where he spent nearly two decades selling new corporate jets. In 1993, Rick partnered with Jim Vance to launch Vance and Engles Aircraft Brokers, building a respected business grounded in trust and long-standing relationships. He retired in 2020.

In 1982, Rick married the love of his life, Susan Ruge, and together they built a life rich in adventure, laughter, and deep devotion to family. The two traveled widely and often, walking the Great Wall of China, exploring Machu Picchu, and marveling at Alaska’s glaciers,  along with many beloved trips throughout the Caribbean and Europe. At the heart of it all was family, and Rick and Susan devoted themselves to raising their five boys, creating a close-knit life defined by shared experiences, steady love, and a commitment to always putting family first.

Rick also found great joy in classic cars and the friendships he built through his car club, the Asphalt Angels. He took particular pride in his 1958 Chevrolet Impala Convertible, 1959 Lincoln Continental Mark IV, and 1947 Chevy Thriftmaster pickup, each lovingly maintained and enjoyed.

In the last decade, Rick faced Parkinson’s disease with remarkable strength and grace. A true warrior, he never complained and remained sharp, engaged, and fully himself until the end, meeting the challenges of the disease with quiet courage and dignity.

Rick is survived by Susan and their five sons: Peter (LeAnn), Thomas (Patty), Sean (Abby), Ryan (Celine), and Philip (Rachel). He was a deeply devoted grandfather to eight grandchildren—Evan, Brooke, Gage, Payton, Emry, Colton, Skylar, and Lincoln—each of whom brought him constant joy. His family was, without question, his greatest pride.

Rick is also survived by his brother, Philip (Doc), and his sisters, Lane, Jenny, and Christie. He was predeceased by his beloved brother Gill in 2017.

Rick Engles lived generously, loved fiercely, and leaves behind a family bound together by his example—an enduring legacy of strength, devotion, and heart.

A Celebration of Life will be held later this spring in Providence, Rhode Island. Details will be shared with family and friends.