Rose Mary (Winsor) Abel, 85, of Winchester, Kansas, passed peacefully surrounded by the love of her family on November 11, 2023 - or, as she would have pointed out, “11/11. That- good luck.”

Rose Mary was born in Easton, Kansas, on October 27, 1938, to her parents Rosa (Zorn) and Frank Winsor. She played basketball, was head cheerleader, and graduated Valedictorian of the Class of 1956 at Easton High School. She worked at her family- meat processing shop, Hallmark Cards, Kramer Manufacturing, and Fort Leavenworth. Then, in 1959, she married her high school sweetheart Robert “Bob” Abel, Sr. They were married 62 years.

Rose Mary and Bob grew their family in a creekside home they affectionately called “skunk hollar.” In 1965, they and their three young kids Bob, Rick, and Jeanne established a first-generation farm in Winchester. She remained a devout member of St. Lawrence Catholic Church and the Altar Society.

Rose Mary was the keeper of stories, hugger of grandbabies, and behind-the-scenes heartbeat of the family farm. From over-the-top holiday meals to her annual 4th of July celebration, Rose Mary loved gathering friends and family for joy-filled times together. She and Bob welcomed friends, neighbors, and all to their kitchen table for meals and chats. Their door was, literally, always open.

Among her many talents, Rose Mary was a self-taught bass guitarist for her and Bob- band, Country Magic. She was a smart businesswoman - keeping books for the farm, religiously watching ag rates, and ensuring the hard work in the fields earned top dollar at market. She passed down her love of music, playing piano, sewing, typing, and traveling to her family through one-on-one lessons, trips, recipes and moments spent making unforgettable memories together. She was undoubtedly her family- #1 cheerleader. With three kids, nine grandkids, and 18 great-grandkids - she backed countless school fundraisers and attended a lifetime of sporting events, plays, concerts, and recitals. She was always most proud to share the latest updates from her family.

Rose Mary and Bob were known for their shared wit and antics. Where Bob would tell a dirty joke, Rose Mary would be nearby exclaiming “Oh, Robert!” with a heavy laugh. Together, they grew their family and life on the farm to fit the dream they saw as kids.

Rose Mary leaves a legacy of humble wisdom, selflessness, and obvious love for her family. Her comforting hugs, gentle hand to hold, and light-hearted laughter are dearly missed.

She was greeted in peace by her husband Robert, mother Rosa, father Frank, brother John Winsor, half-brother Tommy Winsor, and great-granddaughter Magnolia Abel. She is survived by one brother Francis (Virginia) Winsor; four sisters Margaret Bardroff, Barbara Herzog, Helen (Ron) Craig, Teresa Ollinger and sister-in-law Phyllis Winsor; three children Robert (Connie) Abel Jr., Richard (Joanie) Abel, Jeanette Noll (Joseph Foderaro); nine grandchildren Jared (Angela) Abel, Brandon Abel, Kristin (Garrett) McMillan, Laura (Aaron) Crossley, Chris (Taylor) Noll, Josh Abel (Kristen Efurd), Jake (Sydney) Abel, Justin (Holly) Abel, Joel Abel; and 17 great-grandchildren.

Visitation and services will be held Monday, November 20, 2023, at the St. Lawrence Catholic Church, 211 W Riley St, Easton, Kansas. Visitation will be available from 9-10:15 am. Rosary and funeral service will begin at 10:15 am. Interment to follow at the St. Lawrence Cemetery. Lunch will be served at the St. Lawrence Parish Hall after the interment.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to Turner Syndrome Global Alliance, Bloom Like Magnolia or FW Huston Senior Living Center.