Geoff’s Tribute
In Memoriam • January 5, 1951 - May 28, 2002
In early 1997, while living in Southern California, Geoff Engen faced a turning point. With layoffs looming, his career managing REO properties for Wells Fargo was about to end. At his brother Chris’s suggestion, Geoff relocated to Austin in February of that year to explore new opportunities in his property management field. Chris offered to introduce him to contacts related to his industry and in between those meet and greets suggested he assist with some of the multi-family remodeling projects he was working on. Geoff accepted this invitation and quickly embraced the idea, so much so that in April 1997, the brothers incorporated Engen Contracting, Inc. (ECI). Together they became partners and began building client relationships, managing projects, all the while establishing a solid reputation.
From 1997 to 2002, ECI thrived with a variety of projects, including multi-family renovations, commercial tenant improvements, as well as the development of a 65,000-square-foot self-storage facility on a 6 acre tract in North Austin. However, just as ECI was flourishing, tragedy struck. On May 28, 2002, while jogging along Austin's Town Lake Hike & Bike Trail, Geoff collapsed from a heart attack. At only 51 years old,
a vibrant and seemingly healthy man was suddenly called to his eternal home.
Geoff’s life began in Wichita, Kansas, as the second of six children. He and his siblings were raised Catholic and much to his mother’s contentment, he remained steadfast to his faith. A standout athlete in high school, he earned the prestigious Doyle Award, which recognized his excellence both on the field and in academics. Geoff accepted a football scholarship in college and played quarterback for a school in Missouri. His passion for competition extended beyond college, and he thrived in numerous outdoor activities like hiking, biking, softball, jogging, etc.
Family was central to everything Geoff did. After the early passing of their father, Geoff naturally assumed a patriarchal role, becoming a role model and a trusted confidant for the entire family. He made it his mission to organize family gatherings on a regular basis, always adding his personal touch incorporating ‘fun-filled’ events. His devotion to his nieces and nephews, including Michael, was unwavering and they often looked up to him as a father figure.
Geoff’s friends saw him as loyal, humble, and always supportive. He never missed a chance to help others, no matter how busy he was. One close friend, visiting Geoff just months before his passing, remembered a conversation where Geoff shared that “he had no regrets in life and was happier than he had ever been.” It was a rare testament to a life well-lived and one of fulfillment.
Geoff's legacy is defined by love, hard work, and dedication. His presence continues to be felt in the lives of those who knew him, a life remembered fondly and without a negative word spoken about him. ECI is proud to say that even years later, Geoff was instrumental in setting the cultural tone of the company that defines who and what we are today.
Engen Contracting Inc.
A full-service general contractor specializing in commercial construction, ECI brings a strong reputation for building quality projects that are competitively priced, a commitment to quality craftsmanship, professionalism, and building trusting relationships to every project we undertake.