It is with great sadness that we announce that ALBERT “WAYNE” ABEL, of Lethbridge, passed away peacefully at the Chinook Regional Hospital on Friday, June 12, 2026 at the age of 64, with family by his side.

Wayne was a devoted husband and proud father of two sons. He was predeceased by his father Robert Abel. Sadly, his mother Pat Abel passed away a few days after Wayne.

Wayne will be remembered as a life-long sports enthusiast. Hockey seemed to run through his veins and he played well into his adult years. He was a true Montreal Canadians fan from the age of two and his dedication never wavered. He was also a superb natural athlete with a talent for playing football, baseball, ball hockey, golf, tennis, racquetball and he even learned how to ski after only being on the ski hill for a few minutes.

Wayne always welcomed his sons’ friends into the household resulting in extra guests for dinners, sleepovers, games, activities and even vacations. Wayne also taught his sons to golf and enjoyed many golf trips with them to BC, as well as a family vacation to PEI.

His compassion for animals was another outstanding trait. Wayne went out of his way to feed sick and injured deer who frequented the yard and much to the chagrin of the Fish and Wildlife agency, often purchased feed or collected crab apples in the fall to feed them. Neighborhood rabbits were included in his circle. He was also involved in rescuing over 60 cats during his lifetime, sometimes finding and bringing abandoned cats’ home, usually wrapped up in his jacket to keep them warm.

Wayne ran his own house painting company where he was respected for his strong work ethic. Despite suffering multiple ongoing physical ailments, he continued to work without complaint. When poor health finally took its toll and prevented him from being able to paint, he looked forward to the day that he could return.

Wayne will be remembered for his sensitive, caring disposition and big heart. Although he had a tough exterior, he was deeply moved and affected by any event which caused sadness or hardship and he always strived to find a way to help.

Left to cherish his memories are his loving wife of 40 years Mary, sons Ryan and Evan (Cassandra); and his siblings Bob (Susan), Wendy (Willy), Terry (Frank), Jim (Arlene); along with cousins, nieces and nephews.

“Those we love don’t go away. They walk beside us every day.”

 

To send a condolence, please visit www.cornerstonefuneralhome.com

• Date : 2026-06-12
• Location : Lethbridge, Alberta