Mel Abbe

Armon Lamell “Mel” Abbe, affectionately known as PopPop, peacefully departed from his home on January 2, 2025, and entered into the kingdom of heaven. His love for life and his family has left an indelible mark on all who knew him. Most importantly, Mel loved the Lord and was a true servant to Christ. Compassionate and giving, he was always willing to help anyone in need.

Mel was born to Mitchell and Berta Brown Abbe on March 2, 1950, in Morton, Texas. Mel’s childhood in Morton would shape him for the remainder of his life. There, he enjoyed enduring friendships, excelled in athletics and academics, and developed a renowned work ethic on his family’s farm. Morton was a perfect setting for Mel’s adventurous and rambunctious side – his stories from this time were thrilling and always entertaining. His charm and witty personality were legendary throughout Morton.

After high school, two years at South Plains College provided the perfect opportunity to meet his soulmate, Linda Streiff Abbe. They were married in May 1970 and eventually settled in Lubbock where they raised their two children. Mel would then attend Texas Tech University and graduate Summa Cum Laude with a degree in Construction Engineering. His career would span 20+ years at Amoco, followed by a successful venture into residential home building and commercial development. His work is woven throughout the Lubbock landscape and remains a legacy to his building career.

To say Mel lived life to the fullest is an understatement. He lived EVERY Single minute and was often quoted saying “What are we, the do-nothing family?” An avid outdoorsman, he loved camping, fishing, and especially hunting. He loved scuba diving, was an excellent water and snow skier, and loved all aspects of lake life. Lake LBJ was his and Linda’s favorite place. A 2nd home at LBJ provided the perfect backdrop for July 4th parties, boating, jet skiing, and all the tubing you could desire. Cherished time at the lake with friends, family, his wife, kids, and grandchildren will be treasured memories for all who experienced it.

Lamell Abbe was preceded in death by his parents, Mitchell and Berta (Brown) Abbe, and his little sister, Rhonda (Abbe) Bird. He is survived by his loving wife Linda (Streiff) Abbe, his daughter Tara (Abbe) Myers and husband Brian Myers of Dallas, TX, and son Aaron Abbe and wife Alayna Abbe of Lubbock. His legacy lives on in his adoring grandchildren Beckett Myers of Dallas, TX, Lleyton Myers of Dallas TX, Addison Abbe, Alexa Abbe, and Aubrey Abbe, all of Lubbock.

As we bid farewell to Armon Lamell Abbe, we celebrate a life fully lived, a spirit that touched hearts, and a legacy that will forever inspire us to embrace life with the same enthusiasm, love, and humor that he embodied. A Celebration of Life will be held at Lake Ridge Memorial Chapel on Monday, Jan. 6 at 1:30 pm.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that you remember him through a donation to the Children’s Home of Lubbock. P.O. Box 2824, Lubbock, TX 79408 or childshome.org.

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