John Stewart Abbott

John Stewart Abbott passed away on Sunday, April 8, 2018 in Orange County, California at the age of 83. 

Born in Texas in 1934, he was the son of Allen Dean and Elizabeth Abbott. John graduated from Lamar High School and University of Houston. He then served in the U.S. Army from 1957-1959.

John was known for his sense of humor and fun spirit. He enjoyed practical jokes, making people laugh and was a friend to all. He was a wonderful chef who shared his passion and talent with his family. He was an avid fisherman with an abundance of stories of his many trips. He loved to travel and explore the world over the years. He shared his love of the mountains with his children and grandchildren who visited him often in Vail, learning to ski and snowboard and enjoying the summer months.

He was predeceased by his parents, Allen and Elizabeth Abbott, stepfather Ed Emme, brother Walter Abbott and wife Marilyn brother-in-law John Arnold and Nettie Graham. He is survived by his children, daughter Caroline Serrata and husband Kenny; daughter Shanna Gallivan and husband John; son Will Abbott and wife Kendra; and his much beloved grandchildren, Stewart Serrata, Rebecca Zivley and husband John, Clair Serrata, Jack Gallivan, Clint Gallivan, Gracee Gallivan, Blake Abbott, Cate Abbott and John Abbott. He is also survived by the mother of his children, Patricia Abbott, his brother Allen Abbott and wife Carol, sister-in-laws Mary Lu Abbott and June Arnold, nine nieces and nephew and their children.

John was very close with his children and grandchildren. His grandchildren have fond memories of summers on the “Papa Trip”, exploring Texas and spending time on his boat. He also had a special bond with his nieces and their children and was always included in their family celebrations.

A celebration of John’s life will be held at 11 am on Saturday, May 5 in the Chapel at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church in Houston, TX.

John would have liked in lieu of flowers or donations, that you take a walk on the beach, watch the sunset, hold your children extra tight, and make a toast to enduing friendship.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of John Stewart Abbott, please visit our floral store.