Glen Allan Abel

Born in Seattle, WA on March 19, 1939, he moved to Fairbanks, Alaska at age 13. Glen graduated from Austin E. Lathrop High School (then still known as Fairbanks High School) in 1958, before Alaska officially became a state. An authentic “Alaskan Sourdough,” he proudly served his country in both the United States Air Force and the Army National Guard and took pride in being the 7th man from the State of Alaska to enlist in the United States Air Force. Following his military service, Glen dedicated himself to the U.S. Postal Service for 37 years, where he became a respected member of the National Association of Letter Carriers. He met his beloved wife of 59 years, Mary, on a blind date on Christmas Eve, set up by her family friend on his mail route. He made sure to celebrate this important anniversary every Christmas Eve.

His commitment to service extended beyond his profession, as he gave generously of his time and talents to his community. Glen served on the Board of Directors for “Play N Learn” for 30 years, where he delighted children and families for many years as Santa Claus. He also volunteered with “Meals on Wheels,” bringing warmth and kindness to those in his community, even the furry friends on four legs.

His passions included history and genealogy, as well as a lifelong fascination with cars, airplanes and trains. He could tell you the year, make, and model of just about anything. He was quite the storyteller, regaling anyone and everyone with the best stories, full of mischief, humor and heartfelt moments. He cherished his family above all else, proudly supporting his daughters in every endeavor, from academic competitions and musical performances to countless sporting events and special life milestones, always their biggest cheerleader. That same boundless pride carried on to his grandsons, of whom he was forever proud and would tell anyone that would listen about them.

Family and friends remember Glen as a man of remarkable generosity who “never met a stranger.” He was known for his kindness, his goofy sense of humor, and his fun-loving spirit. To those closest to him, he was a “gentle tower of a man,” a steady presence who brought joy and laughter wherever he went. He enjoyed life and was considered a big teddy bear and often affectionately called a “big kid.” He gave the best hugs and you knew he meant it.

Glen is survived by his beloved wife, Mary Abel; his children, Glyn (Pav) Komkai, Jennifer Wilson, and Heather Abel; his grandchildren, Matthew and Andrew Wilson and Kieran Komkai; and his sister, Jeannine Steers (and her husband Nicholas), along with nieces, Monica Hill, Candace Wyke, Barbara Edmunds, and Vivian Hollifield, and many grand nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Richard and Ethel Abel; his brothers, Deke Abel and Kerry Abel; and his sister, Susan Abel-Carey.

Glen’s legacy is one of service, kindness, and love. Everything he did was led with a servant's heart, incorporating the love, care, and inclusivity of others. His family and community cherish his memory and carry forward the example he set of living with generosity, humor, and heart.

The family plans to hold a celebration of life for Glen this summer in his hometown of Fairbanks, Alaska. In lieu of flowers, they kindly ask that you consider honoring his memory with a donation made in Glen’s name to your local Senior Center or Meals on Wheels program, causes that were especially close to his heart.