Edward Clifford Abbott

April 5, 1935 – December 13, 2023

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Edward Abbott on December 13, 2023. He was predeceased by his parents, Viola and Louis Abbott, as well as his wife of 61 years, Olive “Sis” Abbott.

Edward is survived by his daughter Lori and her husband Michael Fuda and his son Robert Abbott and wife Anna. He is also survived by his four loving grandchildren, Laurel and Hunter Fuda, and Nora and Alexander Abbott. Edward’s legacy of love and family will continue to chime in the hearts of those fortunate enough to know him.

Edward’s life was a testament to his passion for aviation, sailing, and his home in Florida. He started flying as a teenager and owned a Piper Cub seaplane. He continued to pursue his passion by attending aviation school and enlisting in the Air National Guard. He worked many years for Wayfarer Ketch as a flight engineer and later as Director of Maintenance. Wayfarer maintained and flew corporate jets for the Rockefeller family and Time Inc. As a flight engineer, Edward got to travel the world with the Rockefellers.

From his work in the clouds, Edward came to find solace in the water during moments of leisure. His passion for sailing on Long Island Sound eventually gave way to power boating in Florida’s warm Gulf waters with Olive. The pair not only loved Florida as their home, but for all of the natural wonders in it, admiring the dolphins and manatees swimming in the canal that could be seen from the porch of their home. They were surrounded by an abundance of wildlife in their day to day lives, including ibis strolling on the lawns, pelicans on the docks, anole climbing the porch screens, and even an occasional alligator in the waterways nearby. The Abbotts truly adored their sanctuary in Florida.

Edward’s heart never truly mended following the loss of his dear wife Olive. May Edward rest in peace, flying high into an eternal sunset with his beloved Olive. We find some peace in the certitude that the two are now spending eternity together once more.

Services will be private to respect Edward’s wishes. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Edward’s memory to help save Florida’s beloved manatees, please visit: https://savethemanatee.org/