Edward J. Abell Jr. Obituary
Edward "Ned" Abell, Jr., 77, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on Tuesday, May 28, 2024, following an extended illness. He was the beloved husband of Marjorie (Hale) Abell. Ned was born in Moncton New Brunswick Canada to the late Edward Sr. and Kathleen (Fears) Abell.
Ned grew up in Rockport, graduating from Rockport High School, Class of 1964. In high school, he was an accomplished track and basketball player. Following high school, Ned enlisted in the military, serving in the US Air Force. Deployed to the 60th Aerial Port Squadron out of Travis Air Force Base in California, he served in Cam Ranh Bay during the Vietnam War. Ned continued to remain in close contact with his fellow unit mates who held regular reunions over the years all over the country. They continue to be some of his closest and beloved friends to this day.
Following his honorable discharge from the military, he returned to Rockport and met Marjorie, eventually marrying and settling in Gloucester. Ned was employed first by Seafood Kitchens and then Gorton's, retiring in 2008 after nearly 40 years of service.
A member of the VFW, AMVETS, American Legion and Elks and an avid golfer and bowler, he was involved in leagues and tournaments (usually more than one at the same time) with these organizations over the years. He was a fan of Boston sports, especially the Patriots and Red Sox and a lover of stray cats. He and Marge traveled extensively in their retirement, and he could be found spending countless hours "puttin' around" in his yard and gardens.
In addition to his wife of 53 years, he is survived by his daughter, Pamela Skofield and spouse Duane Skofield of Plaistow, NH; son, Edward Abell III of Gloucester; grandchildren, Mikaela Skofield and her companion Rafael Perez of Haverhill, MA, Kirsten Houston and spouse Seth Houston of Plaistow, NH, Erin Goldstein and spouse Noah Goldstein of Scituate, MA, Meagan Donovan and spouse Jordan Donovan of Atkinson, NH, Michael Abell and his companion Julia Becker of Brookline, MA, and Austin Abell of Gloucester; and seven great-grandchildren, Skarlette, Ezio, Ari, Kelilah, Karleigh, Ophelia and Silas; two brothers, Stephen Abell and Lyle Abell, both of Rockport; sister-in-law, Ann (Hale) McRae of Scarborough, ME; and many nieces and nephews.
Ned was predeceased by his parents; his daughter, Ann Vasil; sister, Jane Grover; brother, Frederick "Fred" Abell; and sister-in-law, Mary (Trafton) Abell.
A graveside service will be held on Thursday, June 6, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. at Beech Grove Cemetery in Rockport. All are invited.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a contribution made in Ned's name to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund (VVMF.org).
