Abel J. Williams

He is survived by his mother, Jennifer Heggelke; father, Stephen Williams; stepfather, Josey Sickmon; stepmother, Jennifer Schroeder; grandparents: Tom and Lisa Koltz (“Ta and Gigi”), Eric and Diana Heggelke (“Grandpa and Grandma”), Tom and Connie Williams (“Grandpa Tom and Grandma”), Bob and Carolyn Mrazek (“Bob-dog and Rae-Rae”). He is also survived by younger brothers Alex and Ronan, and many loving aunts, uncles, and cousins. He was anticipating meeting his little sister Ruby, expected in March 2018.

Abel was a compassionate, intelligent, strong, easy-going person. He loved hunting, fishing, racecars, animals, documentaries, and sitting quietly for hours building intricate structures out of any material available. Abel was a leader from the start, inspiring his friends and classmates both sartorially and behaviorally. He had a vibrant sense of humor and found joy everywhere he could. He never felt sorry for himself and he saw the best in the world. We should all be more like Abel. He was a warrior.

The family wishes to thank the hospital staff at Upstate Medical University and Golisano Children’s Hospital, who took wonderful care of Abel and did everything they could to make him better and bring him comfort. The family also thanks our local community for their outpouring of love and support this last year, without which this would have been a struggle of a different caliber.

Private services are being held for immediate family this week. A memorial service will be held this Spring to celebrate Abel’s life and light with friends and extended family.

Neuroblastoma research is severely underfunded. Please make a donation to fund research that may save the life of a child like Abel. Checks can be mailed to:

The Neuroblastoma Children's Cancer Society

P.O. Box 957672

Hoffman Estates, IL 60195