Recent Passing of City Figure Leaves Colleague Remembering His Impact on Galesburg

A local city figure passed away at Seminary Manor last night shortly after 5 pm. 79 year old William B. Abel, of Galesburg served the city since 1978 until his recent passing. Abel is recognized mostly for his work spent as former Superintendent of Schools in District 205 for 11 years.

Longtime friend Greg Bacon served on the Knox County Board with Abel in the early 2000s, and tells WGIL his friend was respectful to everyone and that is something he will greatly miss.

“Great guy. I just can’t say enough good about Bill,” says Bacon. “Bill was very, very intelligent. He didn’t talk down to you, he talked on the same level you were at. He was a great guy, I really liked Billy.”

In addition to Abel’s committee and board work, he was also served as an elder and pastor for the Community of Christ Church in Galesburg.

Due to his support for the Galesburg Rescue Mission, memorials will be presented in his name to the Rescue Mission. After visitations in Galesburg this 5 to 7p.m. Friday and funeral 10 a.m. Saturday, Abel will be transported to McClure Funeral Home back in his hometown of Taylorville, Illinois.