Russell R. Abel

OBITUARY:

Mr. Russell R. Abel, age 74, passed away suddenly on Monday, March 6, 2006, at his winter home in Venice, Florida. Russ was preceded by his loving wife, Marie F. Abel, father, George Abel and his brother, David Abel I. Russ was a caring son of Louise F. Abel of Sturgis, Michigan, and loving father to Wayne, Dave, and their wives, Sue and Dee Ann. He was a proud grandfather to Erin (princess), Krista (bird), Ryan (sparky) and his main train buddy Jake. Russ will be sorely missed by his family, his dear friend Mary Vos, and many longtime friends and associates. Born in Cincinnati, Ohio, Russ graduated from Western Michigan University with an MBA, and served in the United States Army during the Korean War attached to the intelligence core. After his service, Russ moved to Grand Rapids, Michigan where he joined and later owned Mapes Insurance Agency until his retirement. He was active in the National Railway Historical Society, Train Collectors Association of America, Lionel Collector Club of America, the Grand Rapids Antique Car Club. Services will be held 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, March 11, 2006 at the Reyers North Valley Chapel, 2815 Fuller Ave. and 3 Mile Rd. Friends and family may meet the family at the funeral home on Friday from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. For those who wish memorials can be made to a charity of one's choice. If you would like to leave a tribute please log onto www.mem.com Reyers North Valley Chapel