Abeln, Lewis “Peck”
d. September 23, 2014
Lewis Ray “Peck” Abeln, age 84, of Athens, passed away on Tuesday, September 23, 2014 at his home.
He is survived by his wife Mary JoAnn Abeln, and his children; Brenda Abeln Connelly (husband Ed) from Florida, Sheree Abeln Meyer from Athens, Diane Abeln Hester (husband Tom) from Springfield, Dale Abeln (wife Linda) from Cantrall, and Dean Abeln from Williamsville; 16 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren.
“Peck” was born February 16, 1930 in Carrollton, IL, the son of John Henry and MaudeElizabeth (Huff) Abeln. He had 4 sisters (Charlotte Ethell, Pauline Duigiud, Helen Gwillim, Peggy Hurt), and 6 brothers (Kenneth Freer, John C. Abeln, Paul R. Abeln, Jim Abeln, Bobby Abeln and Charles E. Dixon).
“Peck” married Mary JoAnn Beard on November 17, 1950.
“Peck” honorably served his country in the United States Army during the Korean War. He received the United Nations Service Medal, Combat Infantry Badge, National Defense Service Medal, Service Medal with 4 Bronze Service Stars, and two Over Seas Bars.
“Peck” was a member of the American Legion, the Masons, and the VFW in Athens, IL. He served as the Commander of the American Legion for many years. He was a member of the Athens Christian Church.
“Peck” worked for Fiat-Allis for 23 years and later retired with 12 years from the Secretary of State as a Security Guard.
“Peck’s” favorite pastimes were fishing with his family and spending time with friends.
Visitation will be on Monday September 29, 2014 from 9:00 AM until time of funeral service at 11:00 AM at Mott & Henning Funeral Home in Athens.
Rev. Ken Gennicks will be officiating.
Burial will be held at Camp Butler Cemetery at 12:00 PM in Springfield, IL.
Memorials can be made to the Athens Christian Church in lieu of flowers.
Family is being served by Mott & Henning Funeral Home, in Athens, IL.
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Posted September 23rd, 2014 at 5:45 pm
Sorry to hear about the passing of Peck
Posted September 24th, 2014 at 4:36 am
Do sorry to hear this. Peck was a great guy!! Praying for the family!!
Posted September 24th, 2014 at 12:16 pm
So sorry to hear of Peck’s passing. Thoughts and prayers for the family.
Posted September 25th, 2014 at 7:09 am
Dori and I enjoyed talking with Peck at Grant’s Cafe. Looking at his car book with him was a treat also. A good man and a proud soldier with reason to be. He will be missed by many that loved him and those that knew him as a friend.
Posted September 25th, 2014 at 1:47 pm
Brenda, I was so sorry to see about your dad’s passing. I remember all the stories you told me about his war service and his life. I hope the prayers and thoughts that I and your other friends will have for you and your family help to bring you some peace during this time.
Posted September 26th, 2014 at 6:07 pm
Diane, I am so sorry to hear of the passing of your dad. Please know you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. May he rest in peace.
Posted September 27th, 2014 at 12:18 pm
Have just heard of Peck’s passing and wanted to pass on my condolences. We are never ready to let them go but don’t want their suffering to be prolonged either. Prayers are with you and family. Walt always thought Peck was a good guy-knowthey will meet up in heaven.
Posted September 28th, 2014 at 7:15 am
Josh, Brian, and families, We want to express our sympathy for the loss of your grandpa. Your dad has talked about how much he thought of your grandpa over the years and the good times they shared. From what I have learned about your grandpa, you have both inherited many of his fine traits and qualities. Please know that you and Mel, Lisa, your mom, and the kids are all in our thoughts and prayers as you grieve. Chris & Jodi Babb
Posted September 28th, 2014 at 7:19 am
Sorry to hear of Peck’s passing. I always enjoyed talking to him and listening to his stories over the fence. He always had such a great garden and sweet corn. Unfortunatelly, the neighborhood furry friends also agreed. Our condolenceds to JoAnn and family. Let us know if you need anything.
Posted September 28th, 2014 at 6:45 pm
My Dad, Don Huff, and Peck were cousins. We are sorry to hear of his passing. Dad has Alzheimers but does remember Peck and some of the times they shared as kids. Our prayers are with you at this time. Kathy Huff Siebert