John Abel, IV, age 80, of North East, MD, passed away peacefully on Friday, July 14, 2023. John was born in Olean, NY, on May 9, 1943 to Laverne (Bowlsbey) and John Abel, III. There his father led a chemical lab during World War II and later the family moved to Zion in Cecil County,Continue Reading
John Abel, IV, age 80, of North East, MD, passed away peacefully on Friday, July 14, 2023. John was born in Olean, NY, on May 9, 1943 to Laverne (Bowlsbey) and John Abel, III. There his father led a chemical lab during World War II and later the family moved to Zion in Cecil County, MD, where his father was employed by Aberdeen Proving Ground. While living in Zion, John started his education at Calvert Elementary and Middle School. His family moved to Rising Sun, MD the year he started 9th grade at Rising Sun High School, from which he graduated in 1961. He obtained a Senatorial Scholarship to Western Maryland College (McDaniel College) and graduated in 1965 with a major in Political Science and Education. A Master’s degree in Political Science followed from the University of Delaware with additional course work from various educational institutions.
His life’s work was devoted to education beginning as a teacher at Elkton Middle School, then as an Assistant Principal at North East High School, Assistant Principal at Rising Sun High School, Principal at Cherry Hill Middle School, and then Supervisor of Education for the Cecil County Board of Education. He taught many generations of Cecil County students during his career; he had many wonderful and interesting stories to tell about those 34 years.
Family life began with marriage to Janice Eggers in 1966, the girl he first met in the fifth grade at Calvert Elementary School. They were blessed with two wonderful children John Christopher and Rebecca Anne. During life in Woodland Hills and then at their home in Calvert, many family birthday parties and celebrations were enjoyed. Vacations to the beach and of course, the yearly baseball trips with the Calvert Stogie and Rail Club boys (Jim, Ron, Pete, and George). Life included trains, boats, all things Chesapeake Bay, Museums, plays at Baltimore’s CenterStage, and more. John loved life, laughter, people, and was a very interesting person, but most of all a good friend.
John’s family also includes husband of daughter, Rebecca, Earl Heaps and their daughter Gabrielle; sister, Lois Krewinghaus; brother, William Abel (deceased); Nephews, Sean Abel (Gina) and David Krewinghaus (Erin); Nieces, Shannon Wood and Laura Johnson (Peter), their children and many cousins.
Service’s honoring John will be held at 11AM on July 22, 2023 at R.T. Foard Funeral Home, 111 South Queen Street, Rising Sun, MD 21911 with visitation beginning at 10AM. Burial will follow at Rosebank Cemetery, Calvert, MD. Memorial contributions made be made to the Chesapeake Bay Foundation and sent in care of the funeral home. To send online condolences please visit, www.rtfoard.com.
Deb Lewis
left a message on August 26, 2023:
I just learned of Mr. Abel’s passing and wish to extend my heartfelt sympathy to his family and friends. I had the pleasure of being one of his earlier students and remember his love of learning and enthusiasm in the classroom. May God comfort you and give you peace.
Keith and Michelle Porter
left a message on August 3, 2023:
Dear Janice and Family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all as you honor and remember John. We are saddened to hear of his passing and we will always remember his wonderful smile, hearty laugh, and his kindness and gentlemanly respect for everyone.
He was the epitome of a dedicated educator and served as a role model to students and staff alike. We were among those who thought the world of him, and we know your wonderful family and friends will keep his memory vibrant and alive, now, and always.
May God bless you and provide His wondrous Grace, Strength, and Peace.
Warm Regards,
Michelle and Keith and Family
Sonny and Barbara Tenney
left a message on July 29, 2023:
I had the opportunity to work with John at North East High School and the Board of Education. He was a friend and colleague. Our thought and prayers are with Janice and the entire Abel family. If we can assist in any way, please let us know.
Doris Rhodes
left a message on July 27, 2023:
Dear Becky & the Abel family,
Praying for your comfort. With sympathy, Doris Rhodes
Jennifer (Granger) Blakeman
left a message on July 25, 2023:
I remember Mr Abel as the assistant principal when I was a student at North East High. He had a calm manor and a true concern for the kids. Thoughts and prayers go to the family.
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Jennifer (Granger) Blakeman
left a message on July 25, 2023:
I remember Mr Abel as the assistant principal when I was a student at North East High. He had a calm manor and a true concern for the kids. Thoughts and prayers go to the family.
Joan Swanson
left a message on July 22, 2023:
Dear Family of John,
When I was a teacher at Cherry Hill Middle School, John was my principal. He was an outstanding principal! His keen sense of humor, dedication to our school, and warm and genuine concern for his students and staff lead to him being a beloved principal. John’s calming personality created a wonderful learning environment.
I am so sorry for your loss. He will be missed by many.
With my deepest sympathy,
Joan Swanson
M. Letts
left a message on July 22, 2023:
Heartfelt condolences to his family and friends. Mr. Abel or....Johnny O as the students called him, was a huge part of the NEHS experience.....and detention. Don't turn round, don't look at the clock. A good person who will be enormously missed.
Bonnie Sue Baum
left a message on July 21, 2023:
Dear Janice and Family, my heart goes out to you all. You have many fond and happy memories shared with John, may you treasure these always. I have known him since the first grade at Calvert Elementary School and have always considered him a friend.
My thoughts and prayers will be with you tomorrow as you celebrate his very productive life.
In sympathy, Bonnie
Mary Elizabeth Stewart
left a message on July 21, 2023:
Mr. Able, was a big piece of a lot of people's lives, he will be greatly miss. To his family I am sorry for you loss, Praying God will send straight doing this very hard time.
Mary Elizabeth Stewart
left a message on July 21, 2023:
Mr. Able, was a big piece of a lot of people's lives, he will be greatly miss. To his family I am sorry for you loss, Praying God will send straight doing this very hard time.
Peter Leyon
left a message on July 21, 2023:
John, you will be greatly missed as a neighbor, as a colleague, as a fellow Stogie adventurer, but most of all as a good friend.
Chester Kelly
left a message on July 21, 2023:
Mr. Abel was the Vice Principal when I was at North East. If you hung out in the hallway, he would walk by and say I,O, or D. (get In class, get Out of the hallway, or take a Detention). You knew to get moving. He will be missed.
Phyllis Martin
left a message on July 20, 2023:
So Sorry for Your Loss I met Mr. John Able back in the day, when I was a student at Cherry Hill Middle School. He was very well received by students and staff, very well liked, he was that person that made a difference in our lives. He will always be remembered and missed. R.I.P
LeAnne Wevodau
left a message on July 20, 2023:
Mr. Abel was my supervisor when I started teaching Social Studies at CCPS. He was so kind and encouraging. He really helped get my teaching career off to a good start. I’m so sorry to hear of his passing. He was a good man.
Cherry Seymore Church Long
left a message on July 20, 2023:
Our Loss…. Our generation hearts are grieving for sure. He was the absolute BEST ! Best Teacher and Principal. My sincere condolences to the loved ones left behind. Please know he touched the lives of so many of us. Gave us a positive outlook, necessary knowledge and made it interesting and fun so we all wanted to learn. Rest in Peace Mr Abel
Cherry Seymore Church Long
left a message on July 20, 2023:
Our Loss…. Our generation hearts are grieving for sure. He was the absolute BEST ! Best Teacher and Principal. My sincere condolences to the loved ones left behind. Please know he touched the lives of so many of us. Gave us a positive outlook, necessary knowledge and made it interesting and fun so we all wanted to learn. Rest in Peace Mr Abel
Cherry Seymore Church Long
left a message on July 20, 2023:
Our Loss…. Our generation hearts are grieving for sure. He was the absolute BEST ! Best Teacher and Principal. My sincere condolences to the loved ones left behind. Please know he touched the lives of so many of us. Gave us a positive outlook, necessary knowledge and made it interesting and fun so we all wanted to learn. Rest in Peace Mr Abel
Gayle smith
left a message on July 18, 2023:
In memory of John Abel IV, Gayle smith lit a candle
Cindy Meekins Phelps
left a message on July 18, 2023:
RIP Me. Abel. You were very liked when you and Mr. Bolender we’re at North High School in the mid 70’s. I graduated in “77” and you were N awesome educator. You will be missed. ????
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Henrietta Dunston McCroskey
left a message on July 18, 2023:
I met John when Cherry Hill Middle was first opened in 1968. We were all young teachers, excited about being a part of the first Middle School in CECIL COUNTY . He could see humor in the slightest things., and the students loved him. Later I had the privilege of working with him as Vice Principle at North East High , and he was loved by all, Students and Teachers alike. He was respected and loved by all who knew him .
Henrietta Dunston McCroskey
left a message on July 18, 2023:
I met John when Cherry Hill Middle was first opened in 1968. We were all young teachers, excited about being a part of the first Middle School in CECIL COUNTY . He could see humor in the slightest things., and the students loved him. Later I had the privilege of working with him as Vice Principle at North East High , and he was loved by all, Students and Teachers alike. He was respected and loved by all who knew him .
Becky Lake
left a message on July 18, 2023:
I worked for him at NEHS. He was such a good VP. He always showed appreciation for the teachers and staff. He was a fair man. He was an inspiration. I loved my years teaching there under his guidance. I have many good memories. I’m so very sorry for your loss.
Beth Brinkley Burdette
left a message on July 18, 2023:
To Mr Abel’s family, my deepest sympathy to you all. What a great man who was loved dearly by many. I represent the class of 1982 from NEHS and his smile was contagious. and his kind spirit.
The students he has been a role model too were indeed blessed.
May you fly high Mr Abel with your Lord and Savior ❤️??
Kathy Nickle
left a message on July 18, 2023:
I’m so sad to hear of John’s passing. John was my supportive supervisor for a few years and he’s always been a very dear person.
I am sure losing him has left quite a hole in your family. I will hold you all in my prayers.
Mrs.Ronald Ralston
left a message on July 17, 2023:
Sending prayers for your family so very sorry for your loss. Many memories of Mr.Able as a wonderful teacher and part of our school system.
Debbie (Rogers) McClellan
left a message on July 17, 2023:
This is so sad to see. Mr Abel was a wonderful, fun and the best vice principal ever!! I remember my boyfriend (1st husband Dave Reeves) saw him outside of his home playing with his son. It was probably around 1975 or so. So many great memories. Sending prayers to his family and friends.
Debbie (Rogers) McClellan
left a message on July 17, 2023:
This is so sad to see. Mr Abel was a wonderful, fun and the best vice principal ever!! I remember my boyfriend (1st husband Dave Reeves) saw him outside of his home playing with his son. It was probably around 1975 or so. So many great memories. Sending prayers to his family and friends.
Debbie (Rogers) McClellan
left a message on July 17, 2023:
This is so sad to see. Mr Abel was a wonderful, fun and the best vice principal ever!! I remember my boyfriend (1st husband Dave Reeves) saw him outside of his home playing with his son. It was probably around 1975 or so. So many great memories. Sending prayers to his family and friends.
Debbie (Rogers) McClellan
left a message on July 17, 2023:
This is so sad to see. Mr Abel was a wonderful, fun and the best vice principal ever!! I remember my boyfriend (1st husband Dave Reeves) saw him outside of his home playing with his son. It was probably around 1975 or so. So many great memories. Sending prayers to his family and friends.
Debbie (Rogers) McClellan
left a message on July 17, 2023:
This is so sad to see. Mr Abel was a wonderful, fun and the best vice principal ever!! I remember my boyfriend (1st husband Dave Reeves) saw him outside of his home playing with his son. It was probably around 1975 or so. So many great memories. Sending prayers to his family and friends.
Terrie Adams Warren
left a message on July 17, 2023:
In memory of John Abel IV, Terrie Adams Warren lit a candle
Douglas Shelley
left a message on July 17, 2023:
Mr.Abel was vice principal at NEHS when I attended in the early to mid 70's.he was kind of a jokester at time's but still maintained the job of VP. I will always remember the Mustang he drove to school.My condolences to the family. RIP Mr. Abel. Doug Shelley
left a message:
Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.
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Deb Lewis
left a message on August 26, 2023:
I just learned of Mr. Abel’s passing and wish to extend my heartfelt sympathy to his family and friends. I had the pleasure of being one of his earlier students and remember his love of learning and enthusiasm in the classroom. May God comfort you and give you peace.
Keith and Michelle Porter
left a message on August 3, 2023:
Dear Janice and Family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all as you honor and remember John. We are saddened to hear of his passing and we will always remember his wonderful smile, hearty laugh, and his kindness and gentlemanly respect for everyone.
He was the epitome of a dedicated educator and served as a role model to students and staff alike. We were among those who thought the world of him, and we know your wonderful family and friends will keep his memory vibrant and alive, now, and always.
May God bless you and provide His wondrous Grace, Strength, and Peace.
Warm Regards,
Michelle and Keith and Family
Sonny and Barbara Tenney
left a message on July 29, 2023:
I had the opportunity to work with John at North East High School and the Board of Education. He was a friend and colleague. Our thought and prayers are with Janice and the entire Abel family. If we can assist in any way, please let us know.
Doris Rhodes
left a message on July 27, 2023:
Dear Becky & the Abel family,
Praying for your comfort. With sympathy, Doris Rhodes
Jennifer (Granger) Blakeman
left a message on July 25, 2023:
I remember Mr Abel as the assistant principal when I was a student at North East High. He had a calm manor and a true concern for the kids. Thoughts and prayers go to the family.
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Jennifer (Granger) Blakeman
left a message on July 25, 2023:
I remember Mr Abel as the assistant principal when I was a student at North East High. He had a calm manor and a true concern for the kids. Thoughts and prayers go to the family.
Joan Swanson
left a message on July 22, 2023:
Dear Family of John,
When I was a teacher at Cherry Hill Middle School, John was my principal. He was an outstanding principal! His keen sense of humor, dedication to our school, and warm and genuine concern for his students and staff lead to him being a beloved principal. John’s calming personality created a wonderful learning environment.
I am so sorry for your loss. He will be missed by many.
With my deepest sympathy,
Joan Swanson
M. Letts
left a message on July 22, 2023:
Heartfelt condolences to his family and friends. Mr. Abel or....Johnny O as the students called him, was a huge part of the NEHS experience.....and detention. Don't turn round, don't look at the clock. A good person who will be enormously missed.
Bonnie Sue Baum
left a message on July 21, 2023:
Dear Janice and Family, my heart goes out to you all. You have many fond and happy memories shared with John, may you treasure these always. I have known him since the first grade at Calvert Elementary School and have always considered him a friend.
My thoughts and prayers will be with you tomorrow as you celebrate his very productive life.
In sympathy, Bonnie
Mary Elizabeth Stewart
left a message on July 21, 2023:
Mr. Able, was a big piece of a lot of people's lives, he will be greatly miss. To his family I am sorry for you loss, Praying God will send straight doing this very hard time.
Mary Elizabeth Stewart
left a message on July 21, 2023:
Mr. Able, was a big piece of a lot of people's lives, he will be greatly miss. To his family I am sorry for you loss, Praying God will send straight doing this very hard time.
Peter Leyon
left a message on July 21, 2023:
John, you will be greatly missed as a neighbor, as a colleague, as a fellow Stogie adventurer, but most of all as a good friend.
Chester Kelly
left a message on July 21, 2023:
Mr. Abel was the Vice Principal when I was at North East. If you hung out in the hallway, he would walk by and say I,O, or D. (get In class, get Out of the hallway, or take a Detention). You knew to get moving. He will be missed.
Phyllis Martin
left a message on July 20, 2023:
So Sorry for Your Loss I met Mr. John Able back in the day, when I was a student at Cherry Hill Middle School. He was very well received by students and staff, very well liked, he was that person that made a difference in our lives. He will always be remembered and missed. R.I.P
LeAnne Wevodau
left a message on July 20, 2023:
Mr. Abel was my supervisor when I started teaching Social Studies at CCPS. He was so kind and encouraging. He really helped get my teaching career off to a good start. I’m so sorry to hear of his passing. He was a good man.
Cherry Seymore Church Long
left a message on July 20, 2023:
Our Loss…. Our generation hearts are grieving for sure. He was the absolute BEST ! Best Teacher and Principal. My sincere condolences to the loved ones left behind. Please know he touched the lives of so many of us. Gave us a positive outlook, necessary knowledge and made it interesting and fun so we all wanted to learn. Rest in Peace Mr Abel
Cherry Seymore Church Long
left a message on July 20, 2023:
Our Loss…. Our generation hearts are grieving for sure. He was the absolute BEST ! Best Teacher and Principal. My sincere condolences to the loved ones left behind. Please know he touched the lives of so many of us. Gave us a positive outlook, necessary knowledge and made it interesting and fun so we all wanted to learn. Rest in Peace Mr Abel
Cherry Seymore Church Long
left a message on July 20, 2023:
Our Loss…. Our generation hearts are grieving for sure. He was the absolute BEST ! Best Teacher and Principal. My sincere condolences to the loved ones left behind. Please know he touched the lives of so many of us. Gave us a positive outlook, necessary knowledge and made it interesting and fun so we all wanted to learn. Rest in Peace Mr Abel
Gayle smith
left a message on July 18, 2023:
In memory of John Abel IV, Gayle smith lit a candle
Cindy Meekins Phelps
left a message on July 18, 2023:
RIP Me. Abel. You were very liked when you and Mr. Bolender we’re at North High School in the mid 70’s. I graduated in “77” and you were N awesome educator. You will be missed. ????
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Henrietta Dunston McCroskey
left a message on July 18, 2023:
I met John when Cherry Hill Middle was first opened in 1968. We were all young teachers, excited about being a part of the first Middle School in CECIL COUNTY . He could see humor in the slightest things., and the students loved him. Later I had the privilege of working with him as Vice Principle at North East High , and he was loved by all, Students and Teachers alike. He was respected and loved by all who knew him .
Henrietta Dunston McCroskey
left a message on July 18, 2023:
I met John when Cherry Hill Middle was first opened in 1968. We were all young teachers, excited about being a part of the first Middle School in CECIL COUNTY . He could see humor in the slightest things., and the students loved him. Later I had the privilege of working with him as Vice Principle at North East High , and he was loved by all, Students and Teachers alike. He was respected and loved by all who knew him .
Becky Lake
left a message on July 18, 2023:
I worked for him at NEHS. He was such a good VP. He always showed appreciation for the teachers and staff. He was a fair man. He was an inspiration. I loved my years teaching there under his guidance. I have many good memories. I’m so very sorry for your loss.
Beth Brinkley Burdette
left a message on July 18, 2023:
To Mr Abel’s family, my deepest sympathy to you all. What a great man who was loved dearly by many. I represent the class of 1982 from NEHS and his smile was contagious. and his kind spirit.
The students he has been a role model too were indeed blessed.
May you fly high Mr Abel with your Lord and Savior ❤️??
Kathy Nickle
left a message on July 18, 2023:
I’m so sad to hear of John’s passing. John was my supportive supervisor for a few years and he’s always been a very dear person.
I am sure losing him has left quite a hole in your family. I will hold you all in my prayers.
Mrs.Ronald Ralston
left a message on July 17, 2023:
Sending prayers for your family so very sorry for your loss. Many memories of Mr.Able as a wonderful teacher and part of our school system.
Debbie (Rogers) McClellan
left a message on July 17, 2023:
This is so sad to see. Mr Abel was a wonderful, fun and the best vice principal ever!! I remember my boyfriend (1st husband Dave Reeves) saw him outside of his home playing with his son. It was probably around 1975 or so. So many great memories. Sending prayers to his family and friends.
Debbie (Rogers) McClellan
left a message on July 17, 2023:
This is so sad to see. Mr Abel was a wonderful, fun and the best vice principal ever!! I remember my boyfriend (1st husband Dave Reeves) saw him outside of his home playing with his son. It was probably around 1975 or so. So many great memories. Sending prayers to his family and friends.
Debbie (Rogers) McClellan
left a message on July 17, 2023:
This is so sad to see. Mr Abel was a wonderful, fun and the best vice principal ever!! I remember my boyfriend (1st husband Dave Reeves) saw him outside of his home playing with his son. It was probably around 1975 or so. So many great memories. Sending prayers to his family and friends.
Debbie (Rogers) McClellan
left a message on July 17, 2023:
This is so sad to see. Mr Abel was a wonderful, fun and the best vice principal ever!! I remember my boyfriend (1st husband Dave Reeves) saw him outside of his home playing with his son. It was probably around 1975 or so. So many great memories. Sending prayers to his family and friends.
Debbie (Rogers) McClellan
left a message on July 17, 2023:
This is so sad to see. Mr Abel was a wonderful, fun and the best vice principal ever!! I remember my boyfriend (1st husband Dave Reeves) saw him outside of his home playing with his son. It was probably around 1975 or so. So many great memories. Sending prayers to his family and friends.
Terrie Adams Warren
left a message on July 17, 2023:
In memory of John Abel IV, Terrie Adams Warren lit a candle
Douglas Shelley
left a message on July 17, 2023:
Mr.Abel was vice principal at NEHS when I attended in the early to mid 70's.he was kind of a jokester at time's but still maintained the job of VP. I will always remember the Mustang he drove to school.My condolences to the family. RIP Mr. Abel. Doug Shelley
left a message:
Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.
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