John Lawrence Abel, 66, of Grinnell, died on May 17, 2021, at UnityPoint Grinnell Regional Medical Center. A celebration of life service is pending at the Smith Funeral Home in Grinnell. John was born on November 26, 1954, in Grinnell, the son of Burdette F. and Olive Graham Abel. He was raised in Grinnell and attended Grinnell schools. John was united in marriage to Linda Bryant on March 15, 1996, in Grinnell, where the couple continued to make their home. John was a general contractor in the Grinnell area for many years and enjoyed working independently on construction projects. He has been retired for several years. He attended the Grinnell Christian Church. John was very independent with doing things, yet very sociable to whom he met. He enjoyed visiting with good friends at the Station Clubhouse in Grinnell. He was an avid reader, with Clive Cussler among his favorite authors and enjoyed solving cross-word puzzles. He really enjoyed the outdoors, loved nature, and watching sunrises and sunsets were always a favorite pastime. Survivors include his wife, Linda of Grinnell; two sons, Jimmie Bryant of Iowa City and John Bryant of Grinnell; one grandson, Henley Bryant of Iowa City; and three brothers, Burdette Abel, Jr., David Abel, and Gordy Able. He was preceded in death by his parents; and one sister, Nancy Wagner.