‘Our Heart & Soul’: Kristi means everything to the Engels family, and they are so grateful for her

Kristi Engels was born in Dixon, Illinois to her loving parents Doug and Sandy Frey. She has an older sister, Stacey, as well. Born to a loving family and having a father who taught her how to fix anything, Kristi has reciprocated the same importance of family in her own life, along with the importance of  attempting to fix anything before you give up on it.

“Kristi is a very loving and caring person,” her husband Mark said. “She’s got a genuine soul, and always views the glass as half full. She’s usually very optimistic and looks for the good in people. Kristi has an infectious laugh and enjoys being around family and friends.”

For Kristi, there truly is nothing more important than family. She is constantly focused on spending time with her loved ones, and she is a great family member to all.

She is also a great friend to many. Kristi has a very positive attitude toward everything in life, and it is easy to get along with her. She has the ability to see the good in everyone and is constantly looking at the silver lining, and she treats others well.

Kristi is also a very selfless individual who is there for others. People know they can rely upon her for anything, and they love being able to count on her.

“Kristi is very loving, caring and understanding,” Mark said. “She’s very patient and doesn’t jump to conclusions. She nurtures our boys, helps them with their school work and is there for them when they need her.”

Above all else, Kristi is a wonderful mother. Mason (11) and Camden (9) might not fully grasp it yet, but when they are older they will come to understand and appreciate just how amazing a mom they have.

From the love she shows them on a daily basis to the endless support, there is not a day that goes by in which Kristi is not taking care of the boys in some amazing fashion.

She is also someone who can be looked to as a role model. She keeps her head about her and knows how to stay positive and optimistic, and she is admired for such.

“I admire Kristi’s ability to stay positive in the most stressful situations,” Mark said.

At the same time, there are many things Mark has learned from his loving wife over the years. She helps him be the best version of himself, and she definitely does a great job of bringing out the best in everyone.

“Kristi has brought out the best in me,” Mark said. “She’s helped me realize good qualities about myself, as well as areas I need to improve. Kristi has always made me feel important and special to her.”

That is something he continues to appreciate about his wife on a daily basis. Kristi knows people are flawed, but she does not make anyone feel less because of it. She is always willing to give people the benefit of the doubt, and that is a truly great quality to have.

And for Mark, he has been in love with his wife for a long time. Early on in their relationship, he could tell there was something special about her. Whether it was that sparkle in her eye or her sense of humor, she was the one for him.

“I knew Kristi was the one, once we were in Las Vegas dancing in the New York, New York Casino and the song ‘Free Falling’ came on by Tom Petty,” Mark said. “She wrapped her arms and legs around me as we spun in a circle singing the song. I knew this was the woman I wanted to spend the rest of my life with.”

Mark is a good dancer, so it’s a good thing Mark’s pant leg was not on fire during that moment…

But seriously, Mark has loved spending his life with his soulmate. From traveling to beautiful destinations, to hosting BBQs and pool parties to attending concerts and sporting events together, every day is an adventure with Kristi. She makes Mark’s life infinitely better, and he is beyond thankful she took a chance on him all those years ago.

“I love Kristi more and more each and every day. Kristi is the heart and soul of our family and the rock that keeps us anchored. Life has its ups and downs, but I wouldn’t want to share this ride with anyone else besides Kristi.” – Mark