Poel, Abel (1908-1996) | Heritage Hall, Hekman Library

Abel Poel was born in Grand Haven, Michigan on May 12, 1906.  Growing up he knew he wanted to become a minister. He attended Calvin College and Seminary from 1927 to 1934. In 1934 Poel married Anna De Graaf and together they had four children.  In 1935 Poel accepted the call to serve the congregation of Parchment, Michigan.  During World War II, Poel served as a service minister to the soldiers training for the invasion of Normandy.

In 1944 Poel began work in Rehoboth, New Mexico. There he served as a pastor and hospital chaplain. He also coached basketball at Reboboth Christian School. By 1957 he returned to the Michigan to serve as a home missionary for Classis Muskegon. Poel's final charge was in Cadillac, Michigan. Poel served the congregation until his retirement in 1972.

Rev. Poel served on the boards of Christian Reformed Home Missions and Christian Reformed World Missions. He was a delegate to synod. Poel also was editor of the Bible Crusader for 10 years. Rev. Abel Poel died on June 28, 1996 in Grand Rapids, Michigan from progressive heart failure.