Birth date: Nov 23, 1960 Death date: Oct 9, 2024
John Francis Abel, Jr, known as Jack, age 63, passed away on October 9, 2024, in Milton, Delaware, from complications of a preexisting condition. He was born November 23, 1960, in Geneva, Illinois, the fourth of five children of J Read Obituary
My deepest sympathy to Jack's family and to all who were blessed to have known him. May we meet again in heaven!
Close friend, professional colleague, sponsor. Jack was all of these. Among the many blessings I’ve received from Jack, his presiding over Sarka’s and my wedding 2 years ago was the most precious and most recent. He lives on in our hearts eternally. We will carry his message of miracles and faith forever.
My deepest condolences to Judy and the family. Jack and I go way back. We were roommates the first year of college at the New School in New York. We became great friends taking classes together, playing chess and just being kids. I was in awe of him: his grasp of physics and math, and his incredible piano playing. We fell out of touch as college friends do, but he reached out in 2008 when he began at Caron. Ultimately, I sent my son to Caron, where Jack watched over him and fostered his Recovery. He and I got closer still, visiting in NYC, and getting together last year with our suite mates from 1978. We last spoke on Tuesday before he passed, when he told me how lucky he was to finally have time to be at home with his wife. Judy, he truly loved you. Words fail me. It’s time for prayers
Jack, you are the reason I found Epworth. I kept hearing around the community "you've gotta meet Jack Abel, new pastor at Epworth. You've gotta meet Jack!" Susan and I finally visited Epworth and never left! I particularly remember a sermon about the 12-step program where you literally preached from a ladder in the middle of the sanctuary, and climbed step at a time as you described the step and its importance. I was struck by your courage and conviction as you delivered God's word in your own way and through your own stories. I know that the recovery community adored you, and your witness helped so many. I was delighted every time I encountered you after you left Epworth, whether it was at the grocery store, a random parking lot, etc. You impacted many, whether you knew it or not, and we collectively are grateful for your life and your leadership. As the Apostle Paul said, "to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord". Hallelujah. Bask in the light, my friend
I am very sorry for your loss. I met him while my daughter was a Caron. We all benefited from Chapel and I appreciate all he did to support my daughter.
