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Manuel Alejandro Abello, affectionately known as Manny, passed away peacefully in his sleep on August 8, 2025, due to complications associated with end stage renal failure. He was 62.
Born in Evanston, Illinois, Manny was the son of the late Oscar J. Abello and Maria Elena Abello. His father’s career in the maritime shipping industry took the family across the country, living in Chicago, Seattle, New Orleans, and Glen Ridge, New Jersey. Manny graduated from Northeastern University in Boston in 1986 with a degree in Business and soon followed in the footsteps of his father and great grandfather, joining the maritime shipping industry.
After a brief assignment in Chicago, Manny moved to Hong Kong in 1989, where he spent nine vibrant years with Century Distribution Systems. His leadership helped expand the company’s presence across Asia, and he built a wide network of lifelong friendships. Manny’s time in Asia also deepened his love for sailing. He was a member of the Hong Kong Sailing Club and crewed in numerous offshore races across Southeast Asia, particularly in the South China Sea.
Following the handover of Hong Kong in 1997, Manny returned to the United States to work for K Line America in Southern California before settling in Atlanta, Georgia. There, he met and married Patricia Saenz Abello in 1999. Together, they built a life filled with love and adventure, living in Atlanta, Charlotte, and eventually retiring in Vero Beach, Florida.
Manny is lovingly remembered by his devoted wife, Patricia Saenz Abello of Vero Beach, FL; his mother, Maria Elena Abello; his brother, Oscar Abello; his sister, Rose Abello of Carbondale, Colorado; and a wide circle of cherished family and friends around the globe.
In accordance with Manny’s wishes, his ashes will be scattered at sea in a private ceremony.
Donations in Manny’s memory may be made to VNA Hospice House in Vero Beach, FL or to a charity of your choice.
Arrangements are by Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory, Vero Beach.
© 2025 Lowther Funeral Home. All Rights Reserved.
Kathy Ducey (Armstrong) - Friend
August 13, 2025, 4:06 pm
To Maria, Oscar, Rose and Patricia, I am so sad to hear this news. Manny was a very special person to me, being the best flatmate one could have hoped for while living in Hong Kong. He, Yan-Yan and I shared many memorable moments hosting friends and family during their holidays, regular Sunday dinners and watching LA Law together (in the days when our TV choices were very limited). I wish we had been able to connect in more recent years but it seems life just moves too fast. He will always hold a special place in my heart!
Randy Salim - Friend from Hong Kong
August 13, 2025, 4:12 pm
Much LOVE to you Manny. Thanks for your vibrant smile and laugh. Many good times were had. May your transition be smooth and beautiful. Much love to all your family in this trying time.
Todd Benoliel - Friend from Hong Kong - Friend
August 14, 2025, 3:10 am
With much love to you Manny. You were a true gentleman, so positive and generous in your nature. You will be missed. We join the others in sending your family our love and support during these trying times.
Erick Reynolds
August 14, 2025, 2:39 pm
My deepest sympathy to Patricia and the Abello family. He was a great man and I was fortunate to have him as part of my life. I will miss my friend.