David Neal Abel, 68, of Vincennes, Indiana, passed away on Thursday January 15, 2026. David was born on March 16, 1957 in Vincennes the proud son of Charles and Vada Abel, devoted husband to Heidi Sutton, a loving father to Charles, Skyler, and Robin, and adoring grandfather to Gunnar, Geralt, Maddyx, Alexis, Emberly, and Octavia.
Dave was hard working and dedicated. Spending 45 years working at the Vincennes Water Department, last known as the Manager of Drinking Water. Despite his many responsibilities, he always made time for his family and passions. He graduated from Vincennes Lincoln High School, class of 1975. Though Dave was humble and did not like being the center of attention, he deserves to have his long years of fatherly love honored. He was a man of humor, witty comebacks, generosity, and he left a lasting impact on everyone he met. Dave’s hobbies and interests define who he was. He enjoyed manning the grill, having a campfire for hours, NASCAR, and bowling. He often spent his weekends spoiling his grandchildren or watching his favorite TV shows. Ghost Adventures, American Pickers, Storage Wars, Moonshiners, and MASH to name a few. He was also a member of the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation.
On July 5, 1990, Dave was given a second chance at life due to a heart transplant. Dave did not like to brag but he was the longest living person after a heart transplant. Last year he celebrated his 35th heart transplant anniversary.
Dave is survived by his wife, children, grandchildren, and siblings, Donald (Esther) Abel and Linda (Chris) Holscher.
Dave is preceded in death by his parents, a brother, Gary Abel, and sisters, Lisa Alton and Lori Buzan.
Funeral services will be celebrated on Friday January 23, 2026 at 1:00 PM at Duesterberg-Fredrick Funeral Home with Fr. Dennis Latta officiating. He will be laid to rest in Memorial Park Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 11:00 AM until the time of services at 1:00 PM. Duesterberg-Fredrick Funeral Home is honored to assist the David’s family during their
time of loss.
To send flowers or plant a tree in memory of David Neal Abel, visit the Tribute Store.
Previous Events
Visitation
23
Jan
521 Vigo Street
Vincennes, IN 47591
Funeral
23
Jan
521 Vigo Street
Vincennes, IN 47591
Cemetery Details
Location
Willow Street
Vincennes, IN 47591
