John A Obel

John Obel died peacefully at home on Saturday, December 11, 2010 after a long and courageous battle with ALS. The disease that sapped his body of its legendary vigor could not touch his unparalleled strength of will and spirit.

Born on January 14, 1934, in Kit Carson, Colorado, he was raised in Pueblo, Colorado, the only child of George and Hulda Kablowski Obel. John was the beloved husband of Barbara and father of Michael Obel (Gwen); David Obel [d] (Linda Obel Hansford); Kristine Morton (Michael); Julene Jones (Mac). He was preceded in death by his first wife Carol, who died of cancer in 1989. Grandfather of Stephanie Schnug (Kenny); Jonathan Obel; Shannon Obel; Neal Obel; Shelley Morton; Abbey Morton; Devin Simon; Jason Simon and numerous great-grandchildren. Step-father of Anne McClaran; Leslie DeGrace; Teri Ball; Patty Liaghat; and Sara Cushman. Step-grandfather of Corrie and Jason McKeighen; Heidi Tinnerello; Stacey Fromm; Robert DeGrace; Michelle Hogaboom; Mary and Sophie Ball; Joe and Katie Cushman and Kenoa Jones and even more great-grandchildren. Later in life he discovered he had been adopted. In 2007 it was a joy for him to find his half-siblings Bee Kobert; Carl, Lloyd, Leslie and Charles Nordquist; and Rose Nordquist Sorensen.

John served in the Army’s elite paratrooper division during the Korean War. After the war he began a career at Shell Chemical Company that lasted for 39 years. There he worked his way up to the position of Pressure Vessel Inspector. Transferred to Martinez, California for six years, he was recalled to Denver where he served as supervisor and liaison for the massive clean-up operation of the Rocky Mountain Arsenal. His work helped to transform the former contaminated chemical production facility into the nature habitat that it is today.

In his final days, as he bravely said his good-byes to those he loved, a light emanated from him. All who were with him in his final days saw it. It was a light of love and gratitude for the life he had been given and for the many friends and loved ones he shared it with. His strength and courage were an inspiration for all who were privileged to behold it.

Private Graveside service.

Memorial services:

Mile Hi Church of Religious Science, Alameda and Garrison

Saturday, December 18, 2010

10:00am

Reception follows

In lieu of flowers, donations to the ALS foundation are appreciated.

The ALS Association - Rocky Mountain Chapter

7403 Church Ranch Blvd.

Suite 109

Westminster, CO 80021

www.alsaco.org