On the morning of January 31st, Abel Meza Rosales passed away. He was 60 years old.
Abel was born June 11th, 1962 in Teuchitlan, Jalisco Mexico. He was the middle child of the 13 children Luis Meza and Delfina Rosales had. Abel grew up on the family ranch in Teuchitlan with his siblings where they worked their land alongside their parents. He attended Hilarion Romero Gil elementary school, went to highschool in Ahualulco Jalisco, and attended the Universidad de Guadalajara from which he attained a degree in Biology. On December 20th, 1986 Abel married Laura Becerra in the Senor de la Ascensión church in Teuchitlan. Their only child Jose Abel Meza was born April 2nd, 2000 in Spearfish, South Dakota
Around the age of 20, Abel worked as a sea turtle conservationist for 2 years in Vallarta. At the age of 22, Abel began logging and worked extensively with his brothers throughout the northern midwest and northern frontier states. He and Laura settled in Ashland, Montana where they began their own successful sawmill business together.
Abel enjoyed soccer. Growing up he played the position of right winger for Teuchitlan’s local soccer team Las Ranas. He was a great player that always brought a fantastic energy to the field. His favorite teams to watch were Mexico’s National soccer team and Las Chivas de Guadalajara. He liked watching the soccer games with the volume all the way down because he despised how biased Mexican commentators were against his favorite teams. Despite his teams winning or losing he would always find flaws in the management and tactics of the teams and liked sharing these observations with his son. Abel enjoyed working very much. He loved being out in the woods. A hard day’s work was more than enough to keep him ecstatic. Despite his line of work, Abel continued to be a farm boy at heart. As a result, he began to raise a variety of farm animals throughout his time in Ashland. He raised chickens, goats, pigs, and cows. Out of all the farm animals he raised however, the cows were his favorite. Abel enjoyed gardening extensively. He would always try to have something planted in his garden. He loved having a wide variety of fruits and vegetables to share with his friends and family. Abel enjoyed sharing stories and a few drinks with his friends at the bar. His favorite phrase when entering the bar was, “We’re only drinking two beers tonight, the first one and the last one.” He deeply enjoyed talking to his siblings and extended family over the phone and always made sure to occasionally check on them when he had the chance. Abel also loved spending time with his immediate family. He adored watching movies and TV series together with his wife, mother in law, son and a big bowl of popcorn.
Abel was a compassionate and empathetic man. He always gave more than what he had. Never turned anyone away regardless of anything. He always treated people with respect. Whenever someone would come visit him while he worked he would always immediately shut down his sawmill and devote his time to them, listening attentively to what they had to say. Despite not regularly attending church he always tried to do the right thing and live his life by God’s principles. Abel was a disciplined man, who was always up bright and early, ready to take on the day’s challenges. He was a hard worker who always went above and beyond what people expected from him. While he always complained when his equipment would break, which happened quite often, he worked tirelessly to make sure they were fixed at the end of the day. Abel was always thinking of new projects to start and never shied away from the challenges that came with learning the ins and outs required to bring them to fruition.
Abel is survived by his son, wife, mother-in-law, brothers, sisters, cousins, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, godchildren, and good friends.
Abel set the definition of what it means to be an exemplary person. He is a reminder from God that we must strive to do better, be better, and ultimately live a life in accordance with Jesus’ teachings. May we continue to do better by him and ultimately by God.
En la mañana del 31 de enero, Abel Meza Rosales falleció. Tenía 60 años.
Abel nació el 11 de junio de 1962 en Teuchitlan, Jalisco, México. Era el hijo del medio de los 13 hijos que tenían Luis Meza y Delfina Rosales. Abel creció en el rancho familiar en Teuchitlan con sus hermanos donde trabajaban su tierra junto a sus padres. Asistió a la escuela primaria Hilarion Romero Gil, fue a la escuela secundaria en Ahualulco Jalisco y asistió a la Universidad de Guadalajara de la cual obtuvo un título en Biología. El 20 de diciembre de 1986, Abel se casó con Laura Becerra en la iglesia del Señor de la Ascensión en Teuchitlan. Su único hijo, José Abel Meza, nació el 2 de abril de 2000 en Spearfish, Dakota del Sur
Alrededor de los 20 años, Abel trabajó como conservacionista de tortugas marinas durante 2 años en Vallarta. A la edad de 22 años, Abel comenzó a talar y trabajó extensamente con sus hermanos en los estados fronterizos del noroeste y norte. Él y Laura se establecieron en Ashland, Montana, donde comenzaron juntos su propio negocio exitoso de aserraderos.
Abel disfrutaba del fútbol. Al crecer, jugó la posición de extremo derecho para el equipo de fútbol local de Teuchitlan, Las Ranas. Fue un gran jugador que siempre trajo una energía fantástica al campo. Sus equipos favoritos para ver fueron el equipo nacional de fútbol de México y Las Chivas de Guadalajara. Le gustaba ver los juegos de fútbol con el volumen en el fondo porque despreciaba lo sesgados que eran los comentaristas mexicanos contra sus equipos favoritos. A pesar de que sus equipos ganaban o perdían, siempre encontraba fallas en la gestión y las tácticas de los equipos y le gustaba compartir estas observaciones con su hijo. Abel disfrutaba mucho trabajando. Le encantaba estar en el bosque. Un duro día de trabajo fue más que suficiente para mantenerlo extasiado. A pesar de su línea de trabajo, Abel continuó siendo un granjero de corazón. Como resultado, comenzó a criar una variedad de animales de granja a lo largo de su tiempo en Ashland. Crió pollos, cabras, cerdos y vacas. Sin embargo, de todos los animales de granja que crió, las vacas eran sus favoritas. Abel disfrutó mucho de la jardinería. Siempre intentaba plantar algo en su jardín. Le encantaba tener una amplia variedad de frutas y verduras para compartir con sus amigos y familiares. Abel disfrutaba compartiendo historias y tomando unas copas con sus amigos en el bar. Su frase favorita al entrar en el bar fue: “ Solo estamos bebiendo dos cervezas esta noche, la primera y la última. ” Disfrutó profundamente hablando con sus hermanos y su familia extendida por teléfono y siempre se aseguró de verlos ocasionalmente cuando tuvo la oportunidad. A Abel también le encantaba pasar tiempo con su familia inmediata. Adoraba ver películas y series de televisión junto con su esposa, su suegra, su hijo y un gran tazón de palomitas de maíz.
Abel era un hombre compasivo y empático. Siempre daba más de lo que tenía. Nunca rechazó a nadie, independientemente de nada. Siempre trató a las personas con respeto. Cada vez que alguien venía a visitarlo mientras trabajaba, siempre cerraba inmediatamente su aserradero y les dedicaba su tiempo, escuchando atentamente lo que tenían que decir. A pesar de no asistir regularmente a la iglesia, siempre trató de hacer lo correcto y vivir su vida según los principios de Dios. Abel era un hombre disciplinado, que siempre estaba despierto temprano y brillante, listo para enfrentar los desafíos del día. Era un gran trabajador que siempre iba más allá de lo que la gente esperaba de él. Si bien siempre se quejaba de cuándo se rompería su equipo, lo que sucedía con bastante frecuencia, trabajó incansablemente para asegurarse de que se arreglaran al final del día. Abel siempre estaba pensando en nuevos proyectos para comenzar y nunca rehuyó los desafíos que se venían al aprender los entresijos necesarios para llevarlos a buen término.
A Abel le sobreviven su hijo, esposa, suegra, hermanos, hermanas, primos, cuñados, cuñadas, sobrinas, sobrinos, ahijados y buenos amigos.
Abel estableció la definición de lo que significa ser una persona
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Bert and Helen Woods says
Laura, Abel, and family,
What an incredible loss for you and our community. May God give you strength though this. Sending our prayers and love.
Deb McClaren says
Laura, Abel & Family– What a great loss for you and also the community. Abel will be missed by so many!! He was a great Man now he is our Angel. RIP Abel, Love you all and prayers for healing at this time of loss
Kaaren Rizor says
Laura and family, how terribly sad I am to learn of Abel’s death. He was a kind and generous man and I will keep you all in my prayers. I am sending much love.
Daniel Blackwolf says
My deepest condolences Lori. Prayers for you and your family. I’m very honored to know Abel and your family. Thank you for everything!
Denise Swank says
Condolences to the family. He was a good man.
Ginger says
Laura and family–Sincerest condolences to you all in this sad time. I didn’t personally know Abel, but knowing you, Laura, he had to be something special; and seeing from everyone’s expressions, everyone else thought so as well. Find comfort and solace in your Savior, family and friends.
Your friend from ‘over the divide’ at the IGA,
Ginger
Delores Garcia says
Laura and Abell so sorry for your loss my heart hurts for you all was such a great man and friend Prayers for the family RIP till we meet again if you need anything please let me know
Tammy says
Laura, Abel, and Family
My heart goes out to you during this difficult time. You have my deepest sympathy and support with whatever you need – whenever you need it.
With all my love always.
Art & Destiny Ferguson says
Laura, Abel, and the Meza Family – How we wish we could carry your pain for you during this difficult time. They say a person’s wealth is not counted by the dollars in their pockets, but by the lives they touched and enhanced during their life. Abel left this world a very wealthy man. For everyone who had the good fortune to call Abel friend, he will be missed. The world was a brighter place with him in it. But we find solace in the believe that Abel will continue to watch over us from above until we can all meet again. Love you all.
Art, Destiny, and Jerry
Natalie Parker says
Abel, you will be missed. A quality human being, words fail to express our grief. R.I.P.
Bill Parker Family
Roberta Lonevear says
Sending my deepest condolences Laura an your family..My girls an grandkids who all had your great teaching at APS send there love an hugs to you..RIP, Abel.
Heather Schonenbach says
Laura, Abel and family- my heart goes out to you and I’m so sorry for your loss. It really is a big, hard loss for the whole community as he was such a wonderful, genuinely nice guy that many called friend. We’ve all been blessed to know him. I can only imagine the pain you are feeling now but I will keep you in my prayers that you find strength and peace. Please do not hesitate to reach out for help with whatever. Sending you much love.
Geri Small says
My condolences to the Family, Rest in Paradise Abel🙏🙏
Kyle says
Condolences to Abel’s family. Glad I got a chance to meet him working at Ashland Forest Products.
Ken and Peggy Kolka says
Abel came into our lives thinning trees for us and we thought the world of him. Such a kind man with always a smile. We are so very sorry for your loss. He will be greatly missed by many many people
Tori & Justin Kester says
Meza family, we are so saddened to hear of Abel’s passing. My husband spoken very kindly of him and was grateful that he was such a huge part of his family. We are thinking of you all during this difficult time.
– The Kester’s.
Ann & Bill says
Laura, our sorrow for your loss is shared by all who know you and your family. My prayer is that you find some solace in the arms of family and friends.
Victoria Bearcomesout says
Laura, and family. I was so saddened to hear of your loss. We will be keeping you and Abel in our hearts and prayers .
Fran & Stan Oswald says
Laura, it is hard to put into words how saddened we are at Abel’s passing. What an incredibly tragic loss for all of us. I remember meeting him when we had the Justus…I asked him what he would charge to take out a tree between the buildings. He and Carlos went out and cut it down. He refused to take anything for it. He was what we should all strive to be.
Carla & Jay Johnson says
Words cannot express how heartbroken we are in the loss of our good friend! He was one of a kind and will never be forgotten! Laura and Jr, always remember that he will be watching over you until you all meet again! God bless him and may he rest in peace!
Steve and Lucy Jessen says
Laura, we are grieving with you with the loss of your husband. He was a true friend to us while we were neighbors in Ashland. You’ll be in our prayers in the weeks ahead.
H Small says
Abel was one of the good guys, always treated everyone good, and will be missed by everyone who knew him
Michael Caywood Jr says
So Sorry to hear ! Our Deepest Condolences and Prayers to all the Family . Abel was a huge part of our Home Build ,and will be Deeply Missed .RIP Dear Friend
Speelman Family says
Laura, Abel. and Family We are at a loss for words at this time
Kristi, Chandra, Dallen, Alyssa and Our whole Family. Share in the this Tragic Loss.
The Community has Lost another Great Man..
Hugs Prayers, and Condolences
Jerry Holthouse says
We are in Montana every year and Abel has ales been very kind to us. Our deepest condolences to his family.
Allen & Dana Jimmerson says
We are Sending you our condolences and prayers… We didn’t know you very long, just a couple of years but are deeply saddened by this. Abel was always so kind and generous and had a positive loving attitude. Everyone always had good things to say about him. He will be deeply missed. We’re
here for you if you ever need anything, even if it’s just a hug.
Dave and Mary Jensen says
Our thoughts and prayers are with Abels family and friends during this difficult time. Hold onto your memories and cherish the time you had together. Abel was a friend to everyone he met. RIP Abel you are definitely being missed.
Menne says
Our hearts are just broken over your loss. Abel was a rare and genuine man who asked for nothing and gave so much. We are at a loss for words. You are in our deepest thoughts and prayers.
Bill and Pam Menne
Miles City MT
Kelly & Amber Stevenson-Sargent says
Laura, Abel and Family-
I am so sorry for your loss. Abel was one in a million, always giving so much of himself and never asking for anything in return. After Tiger passed and I moved home, he was there asking me what he could do to help. He was there when my boys needed advice and sometimes when they think they didnt 🙂
I have never met a more selfless man, and I know Abel will be blessed in the next life as we were in this one by knowing him. In the hard moments to come, I hope you find memories that bring you comfort. We are holding you both close in our hearts and thoughts. You have an entire town of folks that love you both and will be there for whatever you need.
Fred and DeeDee Isaacs says
Laura and Abel
Gracias, Gracias, Gracias… Muchas Gracias por ser un buen amigo y cliente .
Federico’s El Hardware
Ben & Kim Waddington says
Laura, Abel, and Family
You are in our thoughts and prayers. We are so sorry to hear of Abel’s passing.He will be greatly missed. My heart aches for you and your family.May God keep his hand on you all during this difficult time.
kitte Coffin says
Laura & Abel, I’m at an utter loss for words to express my heart about Abel, Sr’s passing. You’ve both (along with grandma) been in my prayers since I heard of your loss. GOD help you in JESUS’ name.
June and Danny says
Dear Laura, Abel, and family, words are so inadequate… we are shocked and sad; our hearts break for you. Sending sincerest condolences, and love.
Tim McClaren says
So sorry to hear about Abel he was a great person. If more people were like Abel this world would be a better place
Loranzy and Teresa McMakin Famiia says
Laura, Abel Jr. y abuela… Estamos desconsolados por ustedes. Te enviamos oraciones de amor y consuelo y te llevaremos en nuestros corazones. Te amo mi querida amiga… lo sentimos mucho…
Lori Blaede says
Laura, Abel and the family,
We loved him very much, as we love you all. You know to call if there is ever anything we can help you with or do for you. We will be there in a heart beat.
Love,
Tim and Lori Blaede
David says
Tía Laura y José Abel, les mando todo mi cariño y el de nuestra familia ante esta pérdida tan lamentable no solo para ustedes si no para todos los que lo conocimos, una persona y un ser humano extraordinario, definitivamente vamos a extrañarlo mucho sin embargo tampoco vamos a olvidarlo
Andrita Harris says
Laura, Abel & Family
So sorry to hear of Abel’s passing. He was good man. He will be missed. Thanks for the great lumber.
RIP PRAYERS for the family. Deepest sympathy and condolences.
Harry and Diana Goodwin says
My sweet Laura and Abel, we are so saddened to hear about Abel’s passing. We were very honored to have known him. He was a very great person and will be missed by everyone who knew him. Cherish the memories. All our love and prayers for you and family to deal with this difficult time. ❤️
Krystal Moore says
I am so sorry Lori & family sending my condolences & I will be praying for you guys ,he was very good friend/brother to my dad thank you for allowing us to be part of his life we are very honored to get to know him .
Debbie Skiles says
Dear Laura, Abel, Jazmin, Paula and families,
I am very sorry for your loss of Abel. He was so nice and had an award winning smile. He will be missed. My thoughts go out to you.
Love, Hugs and Prayers,
Debbie
Maria Martínez Rosales says
Mi más sentido pésame qué Dios les dé la fortaleza qué necesitan en esté momento a ti Laura y a toda la familia Meza Rosales les mandamos un fuerte abrazo 🙏🙏🙏🙏
Gail Ivester says
Laura, Abel and Mom my condolences to you all. We lived within steps from each other for over 25 years and having a hard time wrapping my head around the loss. My heart goes out to you all. So many memories and joy . The community lost an icon that will be extremely hard to replace. If you need to talk give me a call anytime!!
The Schrier Family - Hill City SD says
Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
Joe Fox Jr says
Condolences and prayers to you Laura and your family
Russell Alexander says
Laura and Abel I am so sorry for your great loss. Every time I would see Abel, he would tell me everything that Abel was doing. He was so proud of his family.
Lisa Aslesen says
Laura, Abel and family, my heart goes out to you all at this saddest of times. Prayers for peace and comfort as you deal with such a tremendous loss. Abel Sr was a good man and will be missed. Sending hugs.
Berta Arreola Diguez says
Mis sentido pésame para toda su familia. Laura que dios te de fortaleza para aliviar este dolor tan grande. Mis oraciones para su eterno descanso 🙏🙏🙏🙏
Kimber Emmons says
Laura, Abel, and family,
I’m trying to wrap my head and heart around this and I simply can’t. I am so incredibly sorry that this pain is yours now, too. I am sending all the strength, love, and peace you way. Heads Up Hearts Strong. Always.
~Brett, Kimber, & family
Mimi Nickel says
Words cannot express the sorrow that has come over our community. Prayers for Laura, Abel, family & friends for comfort & strength. Love & hugs Mimi, Lisa & Jenine
Adam Zimmer says
Such a Great Man taken too soon. The Warrior Grocery Staff sends our condolences to all of Abel’s family.
Tanner and Candace Schonenbach says
Condolences to the family. A great man, and a great friend. Will be missed by many
Cindy Stanton says
Laura, “little Abel” & families,
I’m so very sorry for your loss. Abel was an ambitious worker, very nice man, and an excellent neighbor. I appreciated him and was so happy to do business with.him when I needed lumber. He was always so proud of you both. I pray for your comfort & peace. Sincerely, Cindy (formerly from across the road)
Bill Menne says
I drove to Ashland a day ago nearly 10 days after Abel was gone!! The town seamed different to me and missing a smile! As Abel always smiled when I stopped to visit or talk shop. Laura Pamela and I will stop to see you and check on you as you are our friend as much as your husband is. Love and Blessings to you…
Bill and Pamela Menne
Faith says
Grief knows many and we are bound… sorry to hear Laura and Abel… prayers era for peace and protection… they are never gone but by our sides… you have a mighty protector. RIP to your husband and father.
Jane Thompson says
Dear Laura and Family so sorry fro your loss.