Obituary of Charles Abeling

Mr. Charles Abeling, 80, of Maple Avenue, Canajoharie, New York died Tuesday, January 8, 2013 at St. Mary's Healthcare in Amsterdam. Born on July 30, 1932 in Canajoharie, NY, he was the son of William Abeling and Dorothy Hoffman Abeling. He was a graduate of Canajoharie High School and attended Western Reserve University. Mr. Abeling was a lifelong area resident. Mr. Abeling started his employment at Beech-Nut, working in the shipping department. He then went on to work in the maintenance department at Lifesavers. He was elected secretary and treasurer of the Labor Union AFLCIO, a position he held for 9 years. Mr. Abeling retired from Lifesavers as personal manager. He was a veteran of the US Army, serving during the Korean War. He obtained the rank of Staff Sergeant and was with the 7th Army Division, 3rd Infantry Regiment. He received the Combat Infantry Badge, and Bronze Star with Valor Device. He was of Lutheran faith. Mr. Abeling was a member of the Lifesaver 25 year club, the Canajoharie/Fort Plain Elks Lodge #2621 B.P.O.E., and of the Fort Plain American Legion Post #554. He also played the trumpet in the VFW Earl Stock Memorial Post #3275 Band. On March 24, 1961 at the Fort Plain Reformed Church Charles was married to Mary Putnam. Together they celebrated over 51 years of marriage. Mr. Abeling is predeceased by his parents, sister, Evelyn Claven and grandson, Eric Yauney. Mr. Abeling is survived by his wife, Mary Abeling of Canajoharie, NY; 4 daughters, Donna and Ronald Young of Fort Plain, NY, Diane and Alan Yauney of Alaska, NY, Debra and Dixon McFee of Fort Plain, NY, Dolores Fuhs of Lexington, KY; son, Kenneth and Joanne Abeling of Naperville, IL; brother, Richard Abeling of Riverside, CA; 16 grandchildren; 21 great-grandchildren; several nieces, nephews and cousins. A graveside service will be held in the spring at Evergreen Cemetery in Fonda, NY. Arrangements are under the direction of Houghtaling & Smith Funeral Home, Inc., 20 Otsego Street, Canajoharie, NY 13317. In lieu of flowers contributions in memory of Mr. Charles Abeling may be made to the Canajoharie Volunteer Fire Department, PO Box 28, Canajoharie, NY 13317.