age 71, of Waupaca, WI, passed away surrounded by his loving family at Cherry Meadows in Appleton, WI, on Sunday, November 8, 2026. He was born on December 21, 1954, in Appleton, WI, to Arnold and Pearl (Bessett) Abel.
Arnold owned and operated Abel Builders LLC, a construction company, for many years. He took pride in his work and spent much of his life building and creating. Outside of work, Arnold enjoyed staying active in his community. He was a member of the Waupaca Lions Club, enjoyed shooting trap at the Waupaca Conservation Club, and previously served on the Church Council at St. John's in Weyauwega.
Some of Arnold's favorite memories were made outdoors and surrounded by family. He especially cherished the time spent working on and building the "Trabin," the family's special place for 37 years. He enjoyed fishing with his family along the Elk River, catching crawfish, and spending time at the Willow Flowage. Hunting was another passion, including deer and elk hunting at the Trabin and trips with family and friends to Colorado, Montana, and Wyoming. He also enjoyed taking UTV rides with Deb, whether heading out to a restaurant or simply enjoying a drive together. Above all, Arnold treasured the time spent with his family and the many memories they created together.
Arnold is survived by his loving wife, Debra Abel of Waupaca, WI; his children, Jennifer Weber (John) of Hortonville, WI, and Matthew Abel (Amanda) of Greenleaf, WI; and his grandchildren, Ellie Weber (Hayden Houselander) of Milwaukee, WI, Natalie Weber of Hortonville, WI, Hunter Abel (Presley Busch), U.S. Air Force, stationed in Chisinau, Moldova, Jaelyn Abel of Greenleaf, WI, and Braelee Abel of Greenleaf, WI.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Arnold and Pearl Abel, and his brother, Andy Abel.
Per Arnold's wishes, a celebration of life will be held at a later date.
The Family extends their sincere gratitude to the Cherry Meadows Hospice Staff, the ThedaCare at Home Hospice Team, and Pastor Kevin Westra for reading a special Bible Verse, Psalm 73: 23-26.
