DOVER - Mende Abele George passed away on January 6, 2016. She was 59 years old. She is survived by her devoted husband, Alan, and their adoring children, Zachary and Garrett. She was predeceased by her parents, Albert Garrett Abele and Betty Mende Abele. She was the light of our lives. Mende and Alan were high school sweethearts. Together, they moved to Dover, Delaware in 1980. Mende was a stalwart of the community. She was a respected member of the legal community, having served as a paralegal for various law firms. Most recently, she became a voice for children as a volunteer Court Appointed Special Advocate. Mende's passion was to serve the Lord. She raised her family in Christ Church in Dover. There, she volunteered on the Vestry, as a Lay Eucharist Minister, and as the Church School Director. When her children were grown, she moved to Saint Peter's Church in Lewes, where she served as the Youth Family Minister. To have known Mende was to love her. She gave with her whole heart. She served with all of her strength. She was an example and an inspiration. We are crushed by the pain of her absence, but her light continues to shine. A memorial service will be held 1 p.m., Saturday, January 9, 2016 at Christ Episcopal Church, 501 S. State Street, Dover. Interment will be in the church cemetery following service. In lieu of flowers the family suggests contributions be made to either Christ Episcopal Church, 501 S. State Street, Dover, DE 19901 or St. Peter's Episcopal Church, 211 Mulberry St., Lewes, DE 19958. Letters of condolences may be sent and guest book signed at www.torbertfuneral.com.