Kathleen Rose Abel
November 11, 1928 – November 28, 2020
Kathleen was born in South Omaha to Joseph and Margaret Mullaly in 1928. She attended St Bridget’s grade school, St John’s high school, and Duchesne College, graduating in 1949. She taught elementary school in Omaha for several years. Kathleen married Howard Selling in 1958 and had four children. Kathleen lived in Omaha, Nebraska; Waterloo, Iowa; and Strafford, Pennsylvania; returning to Omaha upon Howard’s death in 1975.
Kathleen married Robert “Bob” Abel in 1983, and the couple celebrated their 37th anniversary in October. She was an accomplished bridge player, past member of the Duchesne Alumnae Board, and former president of the Christ Child Society. Kathleen and Bob enjoyed their retirement years together, wintering in South Padre Island, Texas, for several years and spending time with their many friends. She especially loved being with her family – including her children, many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. Sunday dinners with “Nini” will always have a special place in the hearts of her family.
Kathleen will be remembered as a devoted daughter, sister, aunt, wife, mother, and grandmother; loyal friend; and devout Catholic. She was a long-time member of Christ the King parish and current member of St Vincent de Paul parish. Kathleen passed away on November 28, 2020, at Lakeside Hospital, following a COVID-19 diagnosis.
Kathleen is survived by her husband, Robert W. Abel; children: Mark Selling (Teresa), Joan Johnson (Alan), Ann Selling (Wendy Schrupp), and Susan Heavey (William Jr.); step-children, Robert E. Abel and Laura L. Abel; eleven grandchildren; three step-grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents; sisters, Marge Stratman and Rita Peters; brother, Terry Mullaly; and husband, Howard Selling.
She will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved her for her kindness, quick wit, and generous spirit.
PRIVATE FAMILY MASS OF CHRISTIAN BURIAL: Thursday, December 3rd at 10:30am at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church. Interment, Calvary Cemetery. Memorials are suggested to Duchesne Academy of the Sacred Heart, the Poor Clare Nuns, or Salvation Army.
To view a live broadcast of the Mass, go to www.heafeyheafey.com and click the “View Live Service” button on the home page.
11 Comments
May the peace of Christ bring you comfort during this difficult time. I was Ann and Wendy’s neighbor before moving from Denver.
You are all in my thoughts and prayers!
Betty
Fond memories of Kathy and her wonderful children and grandchuldren. Sending love, light, peace and joy to the family.
I had the privilege of meeting you Kathleen through your beautiful daughter Ann. May the gates of heaven embrace you.
Thinking of you all and hoping you find peace and comfort in the coming days as you honor your beautiful mom.
Jack and I send our thoughts and prayers to Bob and all the family on the loss of Kathy. She was a beautiful and talented lady. We feel so blessed to have known her.
Although we never met in person, you created a beautiful daughter Ann whom we love and enjoy. We pray for Peace and Comfort for all your family, and safety for all who are traveling.
Our thoughts are with Kathleen’s family at this time of their deep sorrow. We were fortunate to have met Kathy and know her graciousness and warmth.
My heart is with you and your family at this difficult time.
My deepest sympathies to Kathy’s beautiful family and friends. I was lucky to spend time with Kathy many times with her daughters and many grandchildren. What amazing Love and Light Kathy brought into the world! Know in your time of sadness that you all carry your beautiful family matriarch’s Love and Light with you. May it bring you Peace.
When I think of Kathy, I remember her smile, her infectious laugh and kind spirit. May the Spirit of your beautiful family Matriarch be always with the family and bring you Peace. I know her Love and Light will shine on in all of you.
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