Lois Abella, 92, of Ventura, California, passed away peacefully on July 7, 2025, in Ventura.
Lois was born in Crookston, Minnesota, and raised in the nearby town of Fosston. She graduated from Fosston High School before going on to earn her teaching degree from Moorhead State College. In 1954, she was honored as the Queen of the Paul Bunyan Water Carnival-a title that reflected her vibrant spirit and love for community. Eager for new opportunities and adventure, Lois moved to Redlands, California, in 1955. Nearly a decade later, she found her true home in Ventura, where she would spend the next 61 years building a life filled with purpose, creativity, and connection.
A talented singer and accomplished pianist, Lois shared her love of music in her early years as an educator, teaching music to young students. She later taught second and third grade at El Camino Elementary School, where she touched the lives of countless children over her 30-year career. She retired in 1991 to enjoy travel, relaxation, and time with family and friends.
Lois had a deep love for connection and creativity. She found joy in gathering with her beloved group of lady friends for games, laughter, and companionship, and was an enthusiastic member of the local Friendship Club. A passionate photographer and devoted scrapbooker, Lois saw herself as a bit of a historian, lovingly capturing life's adventures and cherished family moments through carefully curated albums and photographs that told the story of a life well-lived.
Lois was also well known for her thoughtful and timely cards. Once you were on her list, you could count on receiving a birthday or holiday card each year like clockwork. If you were especially lucky, your card would include carefully selected newspaper clippings she had curated just for you.
Lois is survived by her two sons, Steve and Mike, her sister, Phyllis Carrier and her three grandchildren, Roy, Zach, and Hayley.
She is preceded in death by her younger sister Carol Johnson.
Per Lois's wishes, no formal services will be held. A gathering of family and friends will be planned for a future date.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made in Lois's name to the Cabrillo Middle School Music Department. The Cabrillo Middle school music department provides a dynamic and inspirational learning environment for students of all ability levels. It is committed to musicianship through education performance and creative activity.