Fred W. Abel, 77, Rothschild, passed away Monday, Dec. 19, 2011.
Born Sept. 19, 1934, in Wausau, the only son of the late Otto and Mildred (Barber) Abel, Fred graduated from Wausau Senior High School in 1953 and honorably served in the United States Army from 1955 to 1957. He married Dianne Goralski on Aug. 6, 1968. She survives.
Together Fred and Dianne raised four children, Shawn (Lori) Abel, Weston, Ara (Elroy) Zastrow, Merrill, Kiva (Todd) Abel-Sann, Wausau, and Treva (Josh Harder) Abel, Madison. Fred was blessed with nine grandchildren: Ryly, Kaila, Kassidy, Kody, Felecity, Kersyn, Tairyn, Lucas and Joseph (Joey).
For 29 years, Fred was employed at Marathon Electric as a semi driver and enjoyed his travels across the United States. Fred was happiest when he was in the outdoors, cutting wood, doing yard work, feeding and watching animals and watching the glow of a fire. He had an extensive collection of antiques and collectables of which he was especially proud and enjoyed sharing the history of each of the collected items. During his retirement Fred and Dianne enjoyed traveling to Arizona, Florida and anywhere else that had warm winters.
His sense of humor and playing of practical jokes will be remembered by all who shared laughs with him. Fred was especially close to his grandchildren who remember him being on his hands and knees playing Lego’s and hot wheels. He fondly gave each child a unique nickname that made them feel especially close to their grandpa.
A celebration of Fred’s life will be held at 5:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 22, at Covenant Community Presbyterian Church, 1806 Weston Avenue, Weston. Rev. Sid Bouldin will officiate. Friends may call from 4 p.m. until the time of services all at the church. Full military honors will be conducted after the services by the American Legion, Montgomery Plant Post No. 10, Wausau.
Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home, 1302 Sixth St., Wausau, is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com.