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Robert “Sonny” Abel passed away peacefully on March 22, at the Sister Anne Virginie Grimes Health Center in New Haven. Robert was born in New Haven on May 16, 1930, the son of the late Irving Abel and Margaret Abel Anderson. Before moving to the Grimes Health Center he resided in New Haven and later for many years in Guilford.

He is predeceased by his first wife, Helen Abel, and second wife, Anna J. Harrison Abel. He was also predeceased by many siblings: Marie, Walter, George, Edward, Lorraine, Dorothy, Irving, Albert, and Joseph. He is survived by his brothers James Abel (Phyllis), Gene Abel (Louise), Ellis Anderson (Laura), and Lawrence Anderson and his sister-in-law Mary Abel. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews, as well as great- and great-, great-nieces and -nephews.

Sonny was an inspiration to his family. In spite of his life-long challenges, he enjoyed many adventures, including traveling to Las Vegas and the Caribbean, watching his beloved New York Yankees (including a few visits to Yankee Stadium), and years of long walks. He was a retiree of the Marlin Firearms Company. He also enjoyed sharing holiday dinners with loved ones and attending family reunions and celebrations. He loved his family with all his heart, even keeping holiday cards displayed year-round so he could see everyone!

His family would like to thank the staff and many caregivers at the Grimes Center, who over the last several years, took great care of our brother and uncle.

A graveside service will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, March 26, at Alder Brook Cemetery, 375 Boston Street, Guilford. Arrangements are in care of the Guilford Funeral Home, 115 Church Street, Guilford. To share a memory or leave condolences, visit www.guilfordfuneralhome.com.