Neil G.G. Abbott of Livonia passed away on December 27, 2016 at age 77.
Neil is survived by his cherished wife, Jacqueline L. Abbott; children Dawn Priestley (Jim) of Bloomfield NY, Carleen Fletcher (Rick) of Easton WI, and John (Pam) Wagner of Springwater NY; grandchildren Katie Wagner and Joshua Wagner; sister Agnes Eaton of Chatham NY; brother-in-law Carl Harris of Palmyra NY; nephews Charles (Kelly) Harris and Jerry Harris; and many dear friends.
Neil was predeceased by his parents Charles and Theresa Abbott, wife Madeline, sister Jane Harris and brother David Abbott.
Neil was commissioned an Air Force 2nd Lieutenant in 1962 after having completed ROTC at Denison University and served at Brooks Air Force base in San Antonio TX. He transferred to Vietnam in January 1966 where he served in Cameron Bay and Saigon. He then transferred to Ellison Air Force Base SD in January 1967. After 12 years of active duty, he retired at the rank of Captain in May 1974. Neil then had a second career of 28 years with NYS OPWDD.
Neil was a great patron of the arts, himself performing at the Linwood Summer Theater for 20 years. He supported and enjoyed years of Bristol Valley Theater, and the Stratford and Shaw Festivals of Ontario Canada. Neil absolutely enjoyed his family and extensive friends, wintering in N. Ft. Myers FL, and cruising the world. He was an active member of the American Legion, VFW and Conesus Lake Association. Neil always enjoyed his family and friends, his cats, a good book and a smooth brandy. He was fond of the jest that the whole country celebrated his Independence Day birthday.
Neil greatly appreciated his upbringing on the Gratwick Family Estate in Linwood NY, and shared the grounds with the public each year at the Gratwick Tree Peony Walk. He continued the support of the Abbott Library of the University of Buffalo, which was dedicated to his father. Neil remained a supporter of the Gratwick Society at Roswell Park Cancer Institute.
A celebration of Neil’s life will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to the Livingston County Humane Society, PO Box 233, Avon, NY 14414 or Bristol Valley Theater, 151 South Main Street, Naples, NY 14512. Arrangements entrusted to the Kevin W. Dougherty Funeral Home, Inc., Livonia ~ Honeoye. To share a memory or send a condolence please visit: www.doughertyfuneralhomes.com