Joseph Marshall Abele

Joseph Marshall Abele, a beloved husband, brother, father, and grandfather, passed away peacefully on June 2, 2023, in Sarasota, Florida, after a courageous battle with dementia. Born to William and Charlotte on September 12, 1936, in  Zanesville, Ohio, Joe was the older brother to three sisters; Jean, Pamela, and Natalie. 

 

An esteemed federal tax attorney, Joe was a dedicated and diligent student and remained a passionate scholar throughout his life. He graduated cum laude with a Bachelor of Science degree from the West Virginia Institute of Technology, earned his Master's in Business Administration from Penn State University, and completed his education with a Juris Doctor from the University of Michigan. Over his 41-year career as a tax attorney in the Department of the Treasury, Joe served in Washington DC, Pittsburgh, and Philadelphia and attained the position of Assistant Supervisor in the Office of Chief Counsel in Philadelphia. He was respected by his peers for his service and accomplishments, and he took great delight in mentoring and supporting younger lawyers, amongst whom he earned a dedicated following.

 

In 1964, Joe married Dorothy Groves, and together they had two sons, Joseph Jr. and Christopher. After Dorothy's untimely passing in 1988, Joe was fortunate to find love again with Eyvonne Bingham (Vonnie), whom he married in 1993. They both embarked on an enriching retirement and adventures, traveling to over 50 countries.

 

Joe's interests were eclectic and wide-ranging, including a lifelong passion for classical and jazz music at concert halls worldwide. His love for history was also evident in his collection of Civil War memorabilia, such as hand-painted lead toy soldiers. Vacations most always included visits to historical battlefields, much to his family's dismay. He found joy in diverse collectibles, from model trains and baseball cards to books, ties, T-shirts, records, and CDs. Desserts held a special place in his heart, and no dinner was complete without a sweet ending!

 

Joe will be deeply missed by his wife, Vonnie; sister, Natalie (Tom Valdivia); sons, Joe Jr. and Chris (Caroline); stepchildren, Cindy (Toby Biggins) and Jeff Bingham; and his cherished grandchildren, Chloe and Curt Abele, and Brianna and Sarah Biggins. Despite his struggle with dementia, he never lost his indomitable and warm spirit, his delightful sense of humor, or his zest for life. His legacy is one of service to his country, devotion to his family, and a sincere love for music, exploration, and adventure.

 

A memorial service will be held in his honor on Tuesday, July 11, 2023, at 11:00 a.m. in the chapel at the Church of the Palms, 3224 Bee Ridge Road, Sarasota, FL 34231.

 

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to one of Joe's favorite organizations:

Saint Joseph's Indian School 1301 N. Main Street, Chamberlain, SD 57325

Smile Train, P.O. Box 96231, Washington, DC 20090-6231

Food Pantry at the Church of the Palms, 3224 Bee Ridge Road, Sarasota, FL 34231.