Donald Lee Abel (May 22, 1933 - May 21, 2015)

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Donald Abel

Born in Illinois

81 years

117973

     Donald L. “Don” Abel Sr., 81, of Peoria, passed away at 1:10 p.m. on Thursday, May 21, 2015, at Methodist Medical Center in Peoria.
     He was born on May 22, 1933 in Peoria, a son of Albert and Lillian (Brewer) Abel. They preceded him in death, along with his first wife, Shirley Ann Streitmiller; son, Donald L. Abel Jr.; and stepsons, Howard and Dan Gaisford.
     Don married Ruth (Baxendale) Gaisford on February 14, 1981 at Prospect United Methodist Church in Dunlap. She survives.
     He is also survived by his daughter, Deb Pugsley of Peoria; son, James (Kirsty) Abel of Chillicothe; stepsons, Tim (LuAnn) Gaisford of Warsaw, IN and Greg Gaisford of Battlefield, MO; stepdaughter, Debbie (Rick) Stokes of Deer Creek; sixteen grandchildren; and twelve great grandchildren.
     Don retired as a Proof Designer for Caterpillar, at their Downtown Peoria and East Peoria facilities. He was formerly employed with Sealtest in Peoria, working in their Milk Cooling and Loading divisions.
     He was a member of Forrest Hill United Methodist Church, where he served as an Usher and formerly served as a Trustee. He was formerly a Troop Leader for Boy Scouts of America. He enjoyed bird watching and was a fan of the Chicago Bears and Chicago Cubs.
     Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, May 27, 2015, at Forrest Hill United Methodist Church in Peoria, with the Rev. Dr. Curt D. Keller officiating. Visitation will be from 5 to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, May 26, 2015, at Forrest Hill United Methodist Church and one hour prior to services on Wednesday. Interment will be at Historic Springdale Cemetery in Peoria.
     In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Don’s name to Forrest Hill United Methodist Church, the W.D. Boyce Council of Boy Scouts of America in Peoria or to the charity of the donor’s choice.
     Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Clary Funeral Home, 3004 West Lake Avenue, in Peoria.

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Latest Condolences

Monte Montefusco

Eagle Scout and Friend

May 26, 2015

Dear Ruth and Jim,

My deepest sympathy for your loss. "Mr. Abel" is one of the most important and influential persons to enter my life. He guided me with wisdom, kindness, and an essential firmness that was instrumental in shaping me into the person I am today. Mr. Abel and the Boy Scouts have been guideposts throughout my life and are a huge part of my success as a physician, leader, and father. I owe much of my love of life, nature, and joy to his mentorship. There is a great sadness in my heart knowing the world is a lesser place without him, but I am also filled with joy by the memories I have of sharing my life with him.

You are in my thoughts and prayers,

Monte Montefusco
Eagle Scout

Please send me both of your contact information.

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