Tracy, Devon, Eric,

Some of my fondest memories of our years in Aurora are from coaching softball with John.  There were always plenty of laughs! Win or loss we had fun. John had a positive outlook and made everyone look forward to the next game or practice.

Please know that Kelly and I are thinking of you. 

I had the great pleasure of spending some time with Mr. Abel and his wife, Tracy, at a conference in Ottawa. Over a lovely dinner, a walk through the City, as well as a fun time singing along with his performance at a local hang-out, it became apparent to me that he was a man whose simple heart’s desire was to have a relationship with people. No doubt, there are many wonderful words to describe a man like Mr. Abel; to me, however, this love of relationship was the trait that shone brightest amongst all others. 

Thank you for the honour of having that brief time of relationship with you, Mr. Abel. I will remember you. 

12/14/2018 

I didn’t know John very well but was very shocked and deeply saddened to hear of his passing. 
I used to see John out in Aurora, especially when we had really big events happening.   I don’t think that there was any one in Aurora who didn’t know John.  He was always smiling and had a great zest for life that was very evident.  
I wish to extend my deepest sympathies & condolences at this time to John ‘s wife and the rest of the Family. 
I am very sorry for your loss. 
The Aurora Community will not be the same without him. 
Sincerely, 
Michele Reynolds 

Sharing everyone's sadness here, especially his family, at the loss of our good friend John. I will miss my fishing friend, my hockey mate , my euchre partner and all the hilarious times we had together.
Deepest condolences 
Rob Watson 
 


John was a special guy but most of those reading this will already know that. I'd known John through certain circles and over the past 5 years or so had become a friend. My first inkling of the depth of character John had, aside from what I already knew from his community involvement,  was when he came to my kick-off campaign as I ran for Council in Newmarket's by-election. John had said he thought I'd make a good one, and came to wish me well, even though he lived in Aurora. I never forgot that. He even made a small donation and shared with me that before he ran for council he'd researched others who had successfully transferred into politics, said he'd learned a great deal from doing that, and had applied what he'd learned to successfully become a councilor. I thought that was great that he'd even share that with me. He was a genuine guy of outstanding character.

John also is he only one I know / knew who not only liked my humour and comedy, spoofy videos but never failed to mention it to me. Even when introducing me to a new person he'd add, " hes funny too ." That was special to me, not only that he noticed and appreciated the humor as not everybody does, that he'd not only acknowledge it but also be willing to in a way promote it / you to others as well. That's pretty unselfish. Who does that today? Not many.

To me John was never a politician in today's sense. He was far too honest and nice a guy. But he'd of made one heck of a Mayor.  The last time I saw John was at his after-party and although he'd just lost the Mayor's run he was already mentioning to me the possibility of doing something together work-wise in the near future. Between you and me I was really looking forward to that, mostly to just being around him a little more and getting to know him even more. Heck I'd even frequented his pool club bar in the city back in the day at Yonge and Eglinton and we hadn't even gotten to talking much about those days yet....

Good bye John, I miss you already.



John joined the Optimist Club of Aurora in 2010. 

John was a very busy person who gave so much to the Town of Aurora and to our Club.

Even during the fall election campaign, John found the time and commitment to make and serve soup at our Optimist Club October dinner meeting.

John touched us all in many different ways.  His passion, his enthusiasm and love of family and friends will be missed.

Our hearts go out to Tracy, Devon (Ian), Eric and the whole family.

Although he has left us, his legacy will live on.  

Aurora is a better community because of John.


Sincere condolences to the Abel family,
Living in Aurora John's face & presence was always prominent.  He participated in so many great things for the community, and you could always tell he enjoyed every minute, being a part of it.   Our thoughts are with the family at this very sad time, and enjoying the pictures posted, I hope all of your memories help you through this very difficult time.
Appreciation for all that John gave back,
Mike & Cheryl Duckworth


To Tracy Devon Eric.  My heartfelt condolences. John and I developed a great friendship.  I always could count on him to lend a helping hand .Something as simple as checking in on me ,giving me  water or going to a ballgame.

He also built a ramp outside for me to get in and out of my house.
Words cannot describe how much of an impact he had on me.  Living with a disability can be very tough. Dealing with all the people that say we can't do this or that.  John always had my back and I am forever grateful.  Hopefully I can continue to honour him in some ways for a long long time.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      Tyler Barker                                                                                                                                                                                                                          

The Aurora Bridge Club were deeply saddened to hear of Mr. Abel's passing. We wish to extend our sincere sympathy to the Abel family and to inform them that we will miss his supportive voice in the Aurora Council. Mr. Abel understood the needs of seniors in his community and we, the Aurora Bridge Club, appreciated his support.
Anna Kennedy, President
The Aurora Bridge Club

Dear Tracy, Devon and Eric, and Stephen, Maryanne, Suzanna and families,
I am so sorry for your loss. John was one of the truly good people.
From the first time I met him as a teenager to the last time I saw him in October, I was aware of John’s kindness, his enthusiasm, his intelligence, his sense of fun, his gentle nature, and his incredible grace under pressure. He was just such an honourable and thoughtful person, and over the past six months it became apparent to me that when he saw a better way forward for his community, he pursued it with unwavering commitment and integrity, no matter the obstacles or backlash. 
John’s thoughtfulness also touched my life several years ago when he made a very poignant suggestion about how to reach out to a family who shared a significant history with mine, although we had never met. It meant a lot to me when John brought my dad’s story to them.
He will be missed by so many people, for so many different and wonderful reasons.  Our sadness runs deep.
With affection always, Judy Brioux


Tracy, Devon, and Eric,

I'm so very sorry for this heartbreaking loss. My memories of John we're making me laugh and his kindness. He's someone you don't forget after meeting. I had some really good times with John and your family at the Takala Cottage. I will never forget those times.  Sending my condolences to you all. Xoxox

Like so many others I was shocked and saddened to hear of John's passing.  We worked together on a now defunct committee to improve transit for persons with disabilities and I always enjoyed and admired his passion and spirit.  I know he will be greatly missed by all those who knew him.  I send my deepest sympathies and condolences to his family.  I will always remember his friendly smile ...

Like everyone else I'm completely shocked and saddened by John's passing.  I enjoyed so many memories being his teammate from the Aces.
We were all so young in our heads , that's how I will remember him. My deep condolences to Tracy, Devon , Eric and all of John's family and friends.
Paul

Dear Tracy, Devon, Ian and Eric

I am so sorry to hear about the passing of your beloved husband, father and father in law.  John was such a good man and loved his family dearly.   Nothing can ever prepare us for such a sudden loss and I know there are no words to comfort you,  but please know that I am thinking of you and praying for you at this difficult time.  I know John is with Michael right now playing their guitars and watching over all of us.  May god bless you and keep you.  With Deepest Sympathy, Cathy

My friend John was not only a great friend of mine. John was a great councillor, the best Mayor Aurora never had, great member and Director of the Aurora Seniors Association, tireless volunteer, advocate for accessability, champion for the less fortunate, family man, musician, great restauranteur and one of the best cooks!....and the list goes on and on....a friend to the Town of Aurora residents and businesses. I will miss John. Every day. 

John, I know you are running the music show in Heaven.  As per the norm the bar will need my help. Wait for me.  Together again. May you RIP.  I will miss you very much.

Good bye my friend.

 Not only was John a valued friend and our common thread was in being a supporter of the arts, moreso I will always remember John as someone who was an incredible community giver of himself. He wore his superhero cape UNDER his shirt.  He was never looking for the accolades.   He fought for things that he really truly believed in, in a great way and all with his fabulous glowing, warm and friendly smile. There is no mistaking that this man had a heart of gold and it shows beautifully in the many beautiful pictures I see posted. He was so proud of his family and beamed with love when ever he mentioned them in our chats together. I loved his positive energy. His mission, it seemed to me anyway, was to help anyone that he could in any way that he could. The welfare of his community was clearly a priority.
My heart breaks for you Tracy, Eric, Devon and to your extended family. I send my thoughts, prayers and love to you all during this most sorrowful time. I'm sure I can speak for many of us when I say that we will miss this great man. ♥️ May you find comfort in knowing that John  made a huge difference here.  A very positive one. ♥️

We saw John almost everyday. 
He would come into Maunder’s sometimes on a hurry but always with a smile.  He always took the time to ask about my daughters and talk about what was going on in the town.  We supported him in his bid for mayor even know we where moving to BC.
We were sad to hear of his passing and extent our sympathy to his wife and children.

I worked with John Abel for only the past year and had little interaction with him however the little interaction I did have was one that I would say was respectful and kind.  His demeanor came across as a kind wonderful man who loved his community and serving them.  He will surely be missed.
My prayers and thoughts are with his family at this time.  God Bless

Please know that John's friends and family are in our thoughts. John will be remembered for his drive, his sincerity, his commitment to giving back to his community, his modesty and his creativity, but most off all for his love and commitment towards his family. John set a high bar as an example --- for that we should all be thankful.

Our Friend Forever … 

We will greatly miss the thoughtfulness, generosity and passion that our wonderful friend and fellow Board Member brought to the lives of others and our community at large every day. 

John’s tireless support, vision and involvement in the Arts, Culture and Sports in the Town of Aurora have made our community a better place for all of us today and going forward. 

His true passion for Music and Live performances helped instill a dynamic music scene at the grass roots level in Aurora whether it be on the streets, in the parks or anyone of the many indoor venues – John was always involved either performing on stage or behind the scenes making it happen for the enjoyment and benefit of his community. 

John’s unselfishness and quiet support of helping both Youth and Seniors alike in the community was truly commendable and is evident through the personal stories we hear from so many, showing just how genuine and caring John was towards others.  

His love and pride of his family was always top of mind for John, we only wish John was still with us to give more of himself and to enjoy more precious time with them. Our Heartfelt Sympathies and Warmest Thoughts go out to Tracy, Devon (Ian) and Eric.

John will forever be our friend and in our thoughts.  

Music Aurora – Greg, Stewart, Julia, Helen, Jamie, Nancy and our family of volunteers and supporters.


Dear Tracy and Family,
Know that you are in my thoughts and prayers at this difficult time.
Mary Lachapelle

Dear Tracy and family,
Words cannot express how sorry we are for your loss. John was a family man, a music man, a friend to so many, an active and compassionate deputy mayor who stood for what he believed in  and an endless volunteer. He will go down in history as a man that loved his community and gave of himself to make life better for those around him. We will remember him as someone who  would light up when he saw you and warmly give you a hug or a handshake. Very few people can give off this kind of warmth and truly make you feel that they are glad to be in your presents. This is a gift he gave to us and so many others. He is missed. Sending our love Stu and Sandy Bundy


Dear Tracy and Family,
May his Memory be a Blessing to you all and bring some comfort. John always was smiling and giving words of encouragement and wisdom and I remember especially when I was running for Council in 2014, that he gave me some advice and I appreciated that as I was Rookie running. He and I spoke often about politics and he was very much in love and in tune with Aurora and had a hand in helping it grow.  I remember coming to the door to canvass and was surprised as I did not realize he was my neighbour. He let me give my speech even though he also was running. It was a pleasure to know him. He will be missed.



John was an incredible human being. He cared. During his campaign, he once said: "volunteer your time to help those in your community." Almost everyone loved him.  I will miss him, and I'm sure so will everyone who had the privilege to get to know him. 

Dear Tracy, Devon, Ian, and Eric -

One quick look around and you can see the immense outpouring of love and support from the world that John created. The John Abel that we have the honour of knowing is a man of passion, of honour, of love, and of joy. He made you feel good when you saw him. John brought people together, a skill that requires honesty and trust, and it was something he took a lot of pride in.

There's a saying that goes something like "try to leave this world a better place than when you entered it".

John did.

As you move through this journey, please take some  time to smile and enjoy the better place John created.

All our Love,
Matt & Kelli.

Like many, so many memories. Having him as one of running mates when we both ran for municipal office in 2014. Smiling as he’d say “I’m ready and able. I’m John Abel.” Seeing him stride about Aurora Farmers Market. Hear his voice at street festival and song circles. Had to change station playing Wagon Wheel. John sung it so beautifully. Always helping others & promoting live music. So glad I sponsored music event Greg Smith and John put together. Too soon friend. Always remembered. Thinking if Tracy and their children. Hugs of support to each of you. Linda Stephens

 I  got to see John Abel 3 times, prior to hearing the sad news, I went to the last chamber meeting,  and after John's farewell speech I stood up and clapped and clapped. that was Tuesday, and a bunch of us went to the legion for a drink,and a jam session was going on, John borrowed a guitar and did one song, and of course he sang and played great, and on the 
Saturday as we are both
Odd Fellow members, in the morning meeting,  he came over and spoke to me after the meeting, and  he said I have an extra ticket for tonight at the legion and Lou Moore is playing, I would like you to have it, as you give so much to the community. so very kind of him.  So glad I went to the legion that night,  and during our conversations at the legion,  he said he remembered me standing up clapping! every time I think about it, it brings tears to my eyes. he will be deeply  missed,
Sincere Condolences to his wife Tracy, his children and family
Anthony Garramone

Tracy, Eric, Devon & Ian,

Words cannot express how amazing John was. He has left footprints on our hearts and will always be remembered.

I have so many great memories of John but one that really sticks out for me was his love for Tracy.  John wanted to surprise Tracy with a picture of their wedding day in the paper for a Wedding Feature we were doing. John snuck in their wedding photo album to the office so that I could scan their  "old school" wedding photo. After I scanned it, he wrapped the album and placed it in a bag nicely and said he had to get the album back before Tracy noticed it was gone. John was so proud of the many years  him and Tracy had been married and still in love,  it was a great photo!  

We miss you John. 

Anthony & Melanie Bell 

 John brought joy, music and light to our Oasis day program at Doane House Hospice. 

He also connected me to Lou Moore and guitar lessons after a lengthly absence. 

Many many cherished memories. He was a kind gentle patient man. 

I will miss him.

Sincere condolences to his wife, children, family, friends and the community he loved so much.

Cathy Kincaide


OBITUARY

John Michael Abel

28 November, 1954 – 6 December, 2018

Thompson Funeral Home

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