Dearest Able's family,

I have been so sad since I learned Abel passed.  I mostly know Abel through my volunteer work on the Samohi campus-both my boys attended and then I started working for the district.

As a parent volunteer I could always count on Abel to lend a hand.  He really helped all of us when we were building and planning the big Grad Nite celebration.  He even helped me when I needed to dispose of the big wooden ship-he knew just who to call.  Always helping always smiling-I am very sorry he is no longer here.  A great man to the students and parents and staff.  God Bless-Lori Whitesell

We send our deepest condolences to Abel’s wife and family. We were truly blessed to have known Abel!  He trimmed our trees for years. When asked about his family, he would proudly speak of his girls and son.  Abel was truly an honorable person with a humble spirit.  A rare gem. My prayers are for his family.  Take care of yourselves.  God bless.

Neil and Bobbie Minami

Dear Orozco Family,

I was deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Mr. Abel Orozco. I knew him through my high school, and although we may not have spoken often, his presence left a lasting impression on me. He was always kind, helpful, and brought a sense of calm and positivity to the school community.

His unexpected loss has been a shock, and I can only imagine the grief you must be feeling. Please accept my heartfelt condolences. I hope you find comfort in knowing how many lives he touched, and how fondly he is remembered by those who had the privilege of knowing him.

Wishing you strength and peace during this incredibly difficult time.

With sympathy,
shane anaya

I recently retired from SMMUSD and my last assignment was at Santa Monica High School.  Whenever I ran into Abel, he always greeted me with a smile and loved talking about the beautiful weather of Santa Monica.  

He congratulated me when I told him I was retiring and laughed when I asked him when it was his turn since he always worked very, very hard -- even on the hottest and coldest days on campus.

Thank you Abel, for making all my days brighter with your presence.

I'm so shocked and saddened by Abel's sudden passing.  I would see him every morning on my walk to get a diet Coke.  He and I would joke about which place was cheaper (El Pollo Loco, Subway, etc.) and he had a great sense of humor about life, about Samohi, and about junk food ;-)  If anyone deserved a big party and a love-filled send off into retirement, it was Abel.  I love how beautiful our campus looks.  I know many people will miss him terribly, but we also feel fortunate to have worked with someone so friendly and compassionate and funny.  Thank you for sharing him with the Samohi community.

Peaceful backyard moments with the best cook 🤍

Abel was the best dad. He was always so caring and never had a bad thing to say about anyone. He truly did right by others and was a great example of great character, perseverance, and just an ideal human being. 

I will miss him so much, and know that he is gracefully watching over his family with the greatest care. Much love to you guys. Every day brings new opportunities.

Sweetheart of a man, forever in my heart🫶🏻

He asked to take a picture of us to keep. We were laughing in this one because he said I looked beautiful, witty. Forever will keep the memories we shared at work. Sweetest kindest man whom everyone loved at Samohi. Thank you.

Abel was such a great friend at work, he always talked about his daughter and granddaughter. He always had something uplifting to say every morning. He will be greatly missed. My sincere condolences to his family.

The family at my brother's wedding (Arya & Jazmin represented in photos).

My deepest condolences.  Abel was such a beautiful soul.  Every time I had a chance to stop and chat with him on the Samohi campus, it made my day that much better.  I hope knowing that he was such a beloved member of the community will help bring your family peace.

Dad and Arya celebrating his 60th birthday.

Dad with his childhood friend Antonio Campos.

On behalf of the Samohi Band program we send our love and condolences to the Orozco family. Abel was a huge part of our campus and always shared his love and appreciation for the band students. I will miss our usual greetings that were full of joy and optimism, and cherish the time we had together at Samohi. 

Respectfully,
Kevin McKeown
Director of Bands, Santa Monica High School

Hello dear family of Abel - My name is Shuli and I am the mental health coordinator for SMMUSD, and I have worked at Samohi since 2005.  I wanted to reach out to share my condolences about his passing, he was such a positive part of the community at our school. I would see him every morning on my walk from my car to my office and his absence is heartbreaking. He had the best smile and always something kind to say. I am missing him a great deal and just wanted to confirm, which I am sure you already know, what a beautiful impact he had on everyone around him. His passing was so unexpected and I want to send my love and support to your whole family.

We did not know Abel for long but we felt as if we did. His warm and open manner gave us an immediate connection. He had an easy smile and comfortable way about him. As our gardener, he worked hard and was very careful to make sure we were pleased with what he did. And we were. We will miss him and send our warmest thoughts to his family that his memory will be a blessing - now and always.

Linda Shahinian and Herb Schiff

OBITUARY

Abel Orozco Pasillas

July 25, 1964 – May 11, 2025

Gates, Kingsley & Gates Smith Salsbury Funeral Directors

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