Gregory T. Abell

Gregory Thomas Abell, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and cousin passed away unexpectedly at his home in July 2024, Greg was born in Seattle, Washington, and lived his entire life in the Pacific Northwest, the last 30+ years on Bainbridge Island in a home he built with his father.

Greg is survived by his wife Kathleen; son, Nathan; daughter, Rebecca (Torin); grandson, Anders; his three sisters, Cathleen (Steve), Janice, and Beth (Joe), and a large extended family on both sides. He was preceded in death by his parents, Clarence and Virginia, and brother Tim. 

Greg was all about living with integrity and purpose. He loved people and enjoyed connecting with them. He especially delighted in connecting people with each other. He embodied a unique set of skills, combining his passion and expertise in conflict engagement with a wealth of experience and knowledge in the field of education, coaching, and leadership. Greg mentored, trained, coached, facilitated, and mediated with many in the state of Washington, as well as around the country. He used his skill and work ethic to build a successful dispute resolution business, Sound Options Mediation and Training Group.

Greg was a generous giver, hard worker, and continual learner. Above all, he liked to have fun. If Greg was present, upon entering a room, one would easily discover his presence by his wonderfully distinct voice and hardy laugh as he shared his generous spirit. Greg was a founding member of the Kitsap County Dispute Resolution Center and was actively involved with the Bainbridge Island Rotary. He served on multiple nonprofit boards, and many church communities throughout his lifetime.

Greg was an avid bicyclist, skier, and sailor. He loved kayaking with his grandson. He was devoted to his family as well as helping others in his neighborhood and beyond. He loved traveling and learning about other cultures around the world. He most recently enjoyed a trip with Kathleen around Cape Horn and throughout South America.

Greg worked hard, played hard, and was a lifelong avid reader and learner. He embodied a spirit of honesty, integrity, and generosity and will be missed by many.

The family invites you to come join us as we honor this man who loved deeply, gave freely, and impacted so many on Saturday, September 28 at 2:00 at Rolling Bay Presbyterian Church, 11402 Sunrise Drive NE, Bainbridge Island. 

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Greg’s honor to Grace Episcopal Church, or one of the many nonprofits he was involved in that is close to your heart.

Arrangements entrusted to Cook Family Funeral Home of Bainbridge Island, WA.