Brent Maxwell Abel

Brent Maxwell Abel May 6,1916 - December 26, 2005 Brent Abel died at home in the late morning of December 26. His wife, Corinne, was at his side. As a child Brent lived in Brooklyn, NY, with his mother, Susan Maxwell Abel, and sister, Emily Abel. When his mother remarried Charles Tutenberg, they moved to Scarsdale, NY. However Brent's roots were in Clarksburg, WV, where his grandfather lived and his mother was born. Brent was educated at Phillips Exeter Academy, Harvard University and Harvard Law School. Brent joined the Navy where he had a distinguished career and won the Navy Cross. After World War II, Brent and his first wife, Georgiana Powell, moved to the Bay Area, where their two children, Brent, Jr. and Molly, were born. Brent joined the McCutchen Law Firm in SF. He served as president of both the SF City Bar and the California State Bar. His first marriage ended. In 1973 Brent married Corinne Van Horne. They acquired Oat Hills Ranch in Browns Valley, CA. The ranch brought the couple, their family and friends great pleasure. From round-ups, weddings, and family reunions to Easter services in the barn, the ranch was a spot of great happiness for all, especially Brent. Brent not only gave distinguished service to his country and all people with whom he had contact, but he was a beloved hero to his children: Brent Abel, Jr. and Molly Abel Warner; his stepchildren: David and Polly Van Horne, Katherine Van Horne Rissel, and Steven and Anne Evans; his grandchildren: Georgiana, Molly and Cassidy Abel, Max and Sam Warner; his step-grandchildren: Samantha, Morgan, and Zachary Rissel, David, Jennifer, Selby, Robert and Lucy Van Horne, Robannie and Lauren Evans, and his wife of 32 years, Corinne. All but three of the above were able to gather in his home on the afternoon of December 26. On this special occasion, his family shared their wonderful, happy memories of Brent and told of the difference he made in their lives. Not only did he provide a beautiful place for all to come home to (Oat Hills Ranch), but he imagined wonderful travel destinations for his children, his grandchildren, his wife and himself; and he made his imaginings come true with unforgettable family trips throughout the world. He brought two families into one with his thoughtfulness, acceptance and love. What a wonderful man! A Memorial Service will be held at Grace Cathedral in San Francisco on Tuesday, January 24, at 11:00 AM.