Mary Lou Abeln

Mary Lou Abeln, 72, of Portland, Oregon, passed away on January 28, 2024. A free spirit and an artist, she was a beloved member of the Portland community. Mary Lou was born on February 25, 1951, in Hopkins, Minnesota, and grew up in St. Louis, Missouri, with her family.

Mary Lou had a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from the University of Missouri. In the mid-80s, she moved to Portland, where she made a significant impact on the art scene. She co-founded the non-profit organization Cracked Pots, dedicated to creating garden art from reclaimed materials. One of their notable achievements was hosting an art fair at McMenamin's Edgefield in Troutdale, showcasing the works of numerous artists.

Mary Lou's passion for art extended beyond Cracked Pots. She spent many years working at Genoa's, a renowned northern Italian restaurant in Portland, where celebrities and notable figures often dined. She also received a community grant to build a garden with a local grade school, which she considered one of the highlights of her life.

Aside from her artistic endeavors, Mary Lou had a variety of hobbies that brought her joy. She had a green thumb and enjoyed gardening, utilizing her creativity to cultivate beautiful spaces. She was also a talented writer, painter, and crafter, often creating handmade cards filled with well-wishes and hopes for the recipient. Her love for literature was evident in her extensive library, which spanned all genres. Mary Lou had a deep appreciation for music, particularly jazz and blues, which resonated with her soul.

Mary Lou is survived by her seven siblings, Kathleen, Mark, Dan, Jim, Tom, Peg, and Maureen, along with many beloved nieces and nephews. She leaves behind a wide circle of friends and acquaintances in Portland. She was preceded in death by her parents, Raymond and Mary.

Mary Lou Abeln will be remembered as a vibrant and creative soul who brought beauty and joy to the world. Her legacy will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to have known her.