Ruth A. Abele

McKOWNVILLE – Ruth Ann Abele, 98, of McKownville, passed away on Sunday, May 24, 2020.  Ruth was born in Albany, the daughter of the late John A. and Marie E. Tiernan O’Donnell.  She graduated from Vincentian Institute and the New York State College for Teachers (Predecessor of SUNY Albany).  She was employed for many years as an executive secretary by General Electric Co. in Schenectady.  After her children were raised, Ruth lived by her motto of needing to be needed.  She joined the ranks of volunteers.  She was a charter member of the Guilderland Historical Society, the Volunteer group of the New York State Theater Institute, and the Board of Trustees of the SUNYA Libraries Friends.  She was also active in the McKownville Fire Department Auxiliary, Guilderland Library Board of Trustees, and longtime volunteer at St. Peter’s Hospital.

Ruth was predeceased by her beloved husband Fred B. Abele, who died in 1985 after 39 years of marriage.  She is survived by her daughter Carol Ann Abele; her son Mark S. Abele and his wife Marilyn P. Semerad; and by many nieces and grand nieces and nephews.

Due to the current virus pandemic, services will be held privately, with burial in St. Agnes Cemetery, Menands.  Arrangements have been entrusted to the Hans Funeral Home, Albany.   To leave a message of condolence for the family, please visit www.HansFuneralHome.com.