Leonard Abel

Leonard I. Abel, 96, of Chevy Chase, MD, died peacefully at his home on January 8, 2021. Leonard was born on Oct. 12,1924 in Washington, D.C. He was the 2nd youngest of 6 children. He was raised in Georgetown on M St. above the family store, graduated from Western High School, and went on to the University of Pennsylvania. College was interrupted by World War II where he and his 4 brothers all served. Following the war, he returned to graduate from the University of Pennsylvania. While attending the University he met Helen Shapiro, whom he later married in 1952. Leonard is survived by his wife, three children, Jack (Meryl), Joy (Matt Morley), and Susan (Jim Dreggors), six grandchildren, Alex Abel, Brooke Abel, Eric Morley, Andrew Morley, Caroline Thomoff, and Evan Thomoff, as well as 2 great-grandchildren - Emily and Jacob Kasel. The first half of his working career was spent at Giant Food. The next phase of his working life was as a partner in Richmarr Construction, building thousands of houses and developing many commercial properties. Leonard loved to travel, play cards, was an avid, but admittedly bad golfer, and a die-hard Washington sports fan. He was dedicated to the city of Washington and its Jewish community. Leonard worked tirelessly for many charitable organizations, including serving as President of the Washington Hebrew Congregation and of the Charles E. Smith Life Communities. He took great pleasure in being with people and spending time with his family. In light of the pandemic, a private family service will be held.  Donations may be made to the Washington Hebrew Congregation or The Charles E. Smith Life Communities.