PAUL J. VAN ABEL

January 21, 1919 - February 15, 2008

PAUL J. VAN ABEL, 89, of L'Anse, passed away Tuesday, February 12, 2008 at Baraga County Memorial Hospital following a lengthy illness. He was born on January 21, 1919 in Pequaming, MI. the son of the late Cyril and Dora (Anderson) Van Abel. Paul attended school at Henry Ford High School and graduated in 1938. He served in the C.C. Corp., the National Guard. In October of 1940, he served with the 107th Combat Engineers and was a member of the US Army during WWII in the European Theater until June of 1945. Paul married Aileen Scott in Ireland in December of 1942. She preceded him in death in 1999. Paul had been employed at Celotex Corporation and retired in 1985 with over 20 years of service. He was a member of the United Lutheran Church, L’Anse. Paul was a 50-year member of the American Legion Post 144 in L'Anse. Mr. Van Abel is survived by his loving son, John Van Abel and partner Peggy Maatta, grandchildren, Maureen Van Abel, Ryan Van Abel, Adam Van Abel, Ana Vuk, Erin McConnell, April and Shannon Van Abel, six great grandchildren, daughter-in-law, Kristine Van Abel, son-in-law, John Vuk and special friend and companion, Dorothy Hofbauer. He was preceded in death by his son David, daughter, Colleen and grandson, Scott, brother Mark and sisters Dorothy and Grace. A memorial service for Mr. Van Abel was held at 11 a.m. Friday, February 15, 2008 from United Lutheran Church, L'Anse with Pastor Scott Williams officiating. Baraga County veterans presented military honors at 10:30 a.m. The family greeted friends at the church on Friday from 10 a.m. until time of the service.