Abeln, Lewis “Peck”

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.