Laverne Abel

LaVerne Abel nee Walker, 94, passed away on September 19, 2022, in Orlando Regional Medical Center, Orlando, FL.

LaVerne Abel was born on January 26, 1928 in Lyons, IL, to William John Walker and Ruth Evelyn Walker nee Nielsen. George Dees became stepdad to her and her older brother, Johnny, around 1932. After leaving high school, she went on to work as a clerk for the railroad. Her boss, Julius Abel became her father-in- law soon after.

Following a whirlwind romance of three days, LaVerne married Airman Kenneth Abel, February 20, 1945. She was a devoted wife and homemaker, moving their growing family from Hawaii, to London, to Japan and finally to Florida. The couple had three children, Kenneth and David Abel, of Orlando, and Sandy Abel Stevens, of Austin, Texas. Following her husband's stroke, La Verne became a Certified Nursing Assistant at the age of 50. She worked at Westminster Towers for more than 10 years, nursing the elderly. Her husband passed away in 1999, after 54 years of marriage.

LaVerne was best known for her open and giving heart. She accepted everyone as they were and taught her children to be the same. She loved helping people. She volunteered for the Red Cross, USAF Family Services, and was active in her church. The Abel Family were charter members of the First United Church of Christ, Orlando. Airmen away from home were frequent holiday guests.

LaVerne is survived by David Abel- son, Kenneth Abel - son, of Orlando, Sandy Abel Stevens - daughter, of Austin, TX, seven grandchildren, nine great grandchildren, two nephews and a niece.

LaVerne is preceded in death by William John Walker - father, Ruth Walker - mother, John William Walker-brother, and Kenneth Abel, Sr.-husband.

The service for LaVerne Abel will be held on Sunday, at 12:00 PM at Carey Hand Colonial Funeral Home.

Visitation: Sunday, at 11:00 AM at Carey Hand Colonial Funeral Home

Burial: Woodlawn Cemetery, Gotha, Fl.