Richard Abell

Richard Abell, 84, died September 3, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Born in 1941, Rich grew up in Elk River, Idaho, where a childhood in the woods formed a lifelong curiosity about how the world works. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1960 and served for twenty years, retiring as a Senior Maintenance Chief in 1980. Sea duty and ports around the globe fed his love of travel and stories; he never tired of recounting shipboard life and the curiosities of far places. He told his stories with such excitement that you couldn’t help but get carried along.

After military service, Rich worked as an analyst in the aerospace industry, first with McDonnell Douglas and then with Boeing from 1980 until his retirement in 2003. He valued colleagues who solved hard problems and he took pride in contributing to defense programs, including the Apache Helicopter.

Family and friends remember Rich for his sense of wonder at the world. He especially loved engaging with babies, delighted by their newness and possibility. Rich also valued his friendships made while attending Sardis Baptist Church.

Preceded in death by his parents CJ and Margaret, wife Audrey, son Joe, grandson Sam, and sister Sondra.

Survived by his wife Diane; son Josh (Denise) Abell; brother Robert (LD) Abell; stepsons Cimaron Holt and John (Becky) Holt; three grandchildren, four great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.

In accordance with his wishes, no service will be held.