Malta, NY - John Joseph Abele Jr known as Jack or Jackie by his family and friends, 70, passed away on 12/31/2022, after a long illness.

Jack was born on 1/2/1952, in Troy, NY to the late John Joseph and Gertrude Abele; Jack was their first child who paved the way for the rest of the Abele bunch. As a child, Jack attended St. Pius X and CBA of which he held fond memories and created lifelong friendships he held dear to his heart. At CBA, he was an avid runner and he continued running in various events in his adult life including the annual Turkey Trot in Troy, NY. Jack was an accomplished water skier. He took karate for several years and continued to be active in sports.

After graduating from high school, Jack attended UCONN and then transferred to Siena College in Loudonville where he received a BS in Accounting. Jack went on from college to become an agent with the FBI. He left the FBI to return home to the family landscaping business and worked with his father, helping with various landscape projects in the region. He was especially proud of the landscaping projects he worked on across the Capital Region including the Empire State Plaza. Jack taught for a time at Troy High School and Bishop Maginn where he was a favorite teacher among his students. He went on to become a home builder and created many new homes across the region. Jack also served his nation in the U.S. Army Reserves and the Air National Guard. But Jack's passion and love was the movies. Jack pursued his passion and attended numerous acting classes honing his skills. Jack filmed his first movie "The Only One" using the Capital Region of NY as the back drop. He wrote, co-directed and acted in the film which premiered at Regal Cinemas at Crossgates Mall. Jack continued his acting career appearing in major television series and Hollywood movies as an extra. His greatest joy was collaborating with Strange Stuff Production's on several independent films, including "Death of the Dead" where he played the lead.

Through the years, Jack lived in many places across the United States and touched lives wherever he went. He taught school as a substitute between acting gigs in Florida and Nevada. Jack's passions beyond acting were all things Disney, the ocean, his best friends and cat rescue.

Jack will be missed by his loving longtime partner Teresa Kirchner who joined him in his many adventures over the decades. He was the loving brother of Christopher J. Abele and his wife Phyllis, and Edward P. Abele and his wife Susan, Kathy Lill, who predeceased him, and her husband Dan and loving uncle to many nieces and nephews. He leaves behind his beloved cats Squeaker, Darbie, Amber, Newbie, Queenie and the recently passed Meow.

The family would like to extend their appreciation for the dedicated care provided to Jack by his caregivers. We are especially thankful to Kathleen O'Shea, who provided compassionate care throughout Jack's illness.

Services will be private and at the convenience of the family.

Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com