Sheldon Abelson

Sheldon Marshall Abelson, 95, passed away on March 18, 2024, with his beloved daughter Sheryl by his side. Over the course of his lifetime, Shelly enriched the many communities to which he belonged. He grew up in Logan Square, a class of 1947 alum from Lane Tech High School, a Corporal in the US Coast Guard who was honorably discharged in 1951. He was a former member of Temple Beth El where he held many leadership positions. He dedicated his life to working in the ladies' shoe business for Sears, Pagadoa Trading and many other companies. He traveled extensively to the Far East working with various shoe manufacturing companies designing ladies' shoes for export to the US and after his travels ended, he held positions selling shoes at Marshall Fields and Neiman Marcus; then later selling refrigerators at Sears. He was a collector of all things shoes; from statues, miniatures, full size, trading cards, scarves, bags, you name it; he was so happy to pass his treasured gifts on to friends and family. Shelly was always a debonair dresser, a lover of books, classical music, classical movies and most especially people. Family was the most important to him, he was a beloved father, grandfather, life partner, brother, uncle, cousin and friend. Shelly is survived by his loving children Sheryl (Bob) Griffin and Scott Abelson; stepdaughter Arlyn (Mark) Miller; much loved partner of 35 plus years Nina Afremow; grandchildren Justin, Joshua (Alexis) and Jordyn, Madelyn, Susannah, and Jackson Miller-who adored their "Pop Pop"; great-grandchildren Celine and Leo; dear brother Irwin Abelson; niece and nephew Stacy (Jerry) Ballard and Ward Abelson and great nephew Michael Abelson. Shelly spent the last 9 years as a resident of Deerfield Crossing in Northbrook. His family wishes to thank the staff and nurses who took such wonderful care of him and showed him kindness. He had a long and beautiful life and will be missed by those he touched. Memorial donations in his honor can be made to the Northbrook Public Library, www.northbrook.info/support/other-ways-support-library.