Donald Charles Abel

Donald Charles Abel, 86, of Tavares, left this world on Saturday, April 18, 2020. Don was born in Atlantic City, New Jersey, but lived in Tavares for 41 years. Don led an extraordinary life. As a young man, Don traveled the world as a Navy photographer. He captured some of his most dramatic images while serving in Korea and Vietnam. In the later years of his Navy career, Don worked as a photographer and sound recordist in the White House for President Johnson and President Nixon. Don retired from the Navy in 1973 at the rank of Chief Petty Officer. After his adventures in the Navy, Don worked in the private sector. He also worked in Lake County government where he met his beloved wife, Patricia. Don retired in 1998 as the Deputy Supervisor of Elections. Don was active in his local community. He was a member of Masonic Lodge #335, Scottish Rites Bodies, Lake County Shriners, VFW Post 147, Eustis Elks Lodge and B.P.O.E. #1578.
Don was also a faithful member of the Tavares Methodist Church. He is survived by his wife Patricia Abel, Tavares and daughter, Tracey Lee Abel, Preston, MD. Online guestbook available at hardenpauli.com. Arrangements by Harden Pauli Funeral Home, Eustis.