Date of death: 3/24/2011

Saint Meinrad Class: O 1965

Fr. Don, age 72, died in the Fountainview Nursing Home in Eldorado after an extended illness. He was born in Ridgway on their family farm, September 22, 1938 to Martin and Louise (Wenzel) Abell. Fr. Don graduated from Ridgway High School and then entered the seminary for priesthood. Before becoming a priest he taught grade school in Ridgway. In 1976 he was ordained into the priesthood and was at the Cathedral in Belleville before being placed in St. Mary’s in Eldorado where he retired in 2006.Fr. Don had a passion for everything he did, rather it was his family, his church, his flowers or life in general. His knowledge and ability to raise Orchids was second to none.He was a 4th Degree sir knight of the Knight of Columbus in Ridgway where he also served as chaplain. He had been the chaplain at the Illinois Youth Center and past Dean of the East Deanery of Belleville.Fr. Don was a great son, brother, uncle and friend, but mostly was a great priest who will never be forgotten as he touched so many lives in such wonderful ways.Fr. Don is survived by, his loving mother, Louise Abell of Ridgway, four brothers: Bob (Barbara) Abell of Fairview Heights, IL, Richard (Barbara) Abell of Ramsey, IL, Larry (Connie) Abell of Goreville, IL and Pat (Becky) Abell of Ridgway, also two sisters: Linda (Charles) McGuire of Ridgway and Cathy (Jim) Smith of Harrisburg, IL. Many nieces, nephews and friends. He was preceded in death by his father and three nephews, Charles Anthony McGuire, David Abell and Mark McGuire.In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Alzheimers Research in his memory.Information obtained online, www.coxandson.com