David was born November 26, 1948 in Sacramento, CA to Earnest "Bood" Abel and Peggy Downing Abel. David attended school in Miami, OK and graduated in 1967. He joined the United States Air Force in 1968, serving in Vietnam from 1971-1972 with the 6994th, Det 2, at DaNang, RVN Air Base. During his service, David flew over 50 combat missions flying on EC-47's and was awarded the Air Medal, along with numerous other medals.
He married the love of his life, Nancy Bohnstedt-Abel in 1974. Together they raised two daughters on a small farm east of Miami, OK. He worked his career in area manufacturing plants as an industrial electrician. After retirement, Dave and Nancy traveled extensively in their motor coach visiting all lower 48 states.
He is survived by his wife, Nancy Abel, daughter Amanda Waggoner, and husband Rob Waggoner both of El Dorado, AR. He is also survived by his step-mother, Judy Abel, of Miami, OK, and sister, Lynn Butler of Texas and his step-sister, Lynette Venard and husband Chet, of Sperry, OK. Grandchildren include Ashlynn Clinton of Kansas, Adrianne and Jaxon Waggoner of El Dorado, AR and numerous nieces, nephews, family and friends.
The family plans an interment at Fort Gibson National Military Cemetery in Fort Gibson, OK at a later date.
Condolences may be expressed at www.youngsfuneralhome.com.
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