Joseph Charles Abeles

I met Mr. Abeles only once in the mid 80's during an Igene Biotechnology Shareholder meeting held in Maryland. My memory is one of a very powerful, very generous, and most gracious man. May he rest in peace.

I loved this man. To me he was like a father, a brother, and a friend. In fact Joe was my boss'-boss'-boss when I joined KCC in early 1961 as a Chemical Engineer, later Mr. Abeles became my mentor, a friend of my family, and on several occassions a competitor on the golf course. I shall miss his friendship, guidance and counsel. I wish to express my deepest sympathy to Lucille, Barbara, Greg, and Joe's three great grandchildren.

My first job was for a company owned by Joe, and I remember him as a larger-than-life figure whose visits to the firm were accorded the same status as a head of state inspecting the troops. Since then I have come to know him as a warm, understated gentleman, always quick to offer a handshake and a smile. He never seemed to tire of asking me how I was doing, each time patiently waiting while I fumbled for a more interesting answer. I feel very privileged to have known him and his family for...