Brian G. Abel
Brian G. Abel passed on March 22, 2026, at Avina Care Center of Fond du Lac at the age of 78. He was born in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, on July 29, 1947; the son of George R. and Mary E. (Bonzelet) Abel.
He attended a one room grade school in Marblehead (which closed after Brian graduated…wonder why?) and Campbellsport and Fond du Lac High Schools.
Brian worked at Smith Mink Farms, Eden, from about 12 years old to the day before his 18th birthday; unless he had to work on the home farm. According to his brother, Allen Abel, this was very seldom, if ever. Later, he worked at Eden Stone for Bob & Bill Gesell.
He was drafted and entered the Army on December 1, 1966 and served until October 31, 1968. Brian was with the 1st Calvary Division from April ’67- April ’68. As an infantryman, he attained the rank of Sergeant. He as in the Third Brigade B-C0 2-7 1st Calvary Division. If you are a history buff, you know what happened to them in 1876 at the Battle of Little Bighorn.
Brian was a life member of the National Rifle Association, and the Van Dyne Sportsmens’ Club. He also held membership with the Kilowatt Club, Super Bowl Club, VFW in Naples, FL, Bench Rest Shooters’ Association, and the Wisconsin Gun Collectors’ Association.
Brian founded Abel Landscaping in 1975, and Whispering Winds Estates in 1994. He co-founded FDL Asphalt in 1993 with Keith Rademann and Mike Meilahn. In 2010, he founded Nelson and Abel Tree Moving with his friend Gerald Nelson.
He was very proud of many things, including, most of all, growing up in a functional and loving family. He was proud of his military record, businesses, dedicated employees, friends, traveling and having a hell of a good time.
Brian was preceded in death by his parents, George and Mary Abel, Uncles and Aunts as follows: Al and Lorrine Walgenbach, Harold and Josephine Soles, Lillian Abel, William and Birdie Galow, John Bonzelet, Joseph and Leona Bonzelet, Virgil and Frances Kohlbeck, Daniel and Rosella Mayer, and Leo and Esther Bonzelet.
Survivors include his children Tammy Abel and Shane Abel; grandchildren John Bevan III, Acacia Bevan, and Caitlin Abel. He is further survived by his brother Allen (Tracy) Abel, sisters Anne Abel and Maureen (Patrick) Andrejeski, along with many cousins, nieces and nephews, and great nieces and nephews.
According to Brian’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A gathering to celebrate Brian’s life will be held at Schmitty’s Oar House on Monday, March 30, from 6:00 PM -8:00 PM. Online condolences may be offered at www.zacherlfuneralhome.com.
In lieu of flowers or monetary gifts, please give to a charity of your choice in Brian’s name.