Jeff's obituary
Jeffrey David Aberle, 48, passed away suddenly on December 10th, 2025, at his home in Suffolk, Virginia.
He is lovingly remembered by his three children—Vika Tomlinson, 26, Vienne Aberle, 23, and Emma Aberle, 17—and their mother, Alex Aberle, 52. He is also survived by his adoptive mother, Joyce Topper, her husband, Don Topper, and brother, Larry Aberle; and his birth mother, Amy Owen, and sisters Michelle Owen, and Jennifer Owen.
Jeff graduated from East Peoria Community High School in 1995, and was employed at Elevance Health for over a decade at the time of his passing.
Jeff was a loving father, friend, son, and brother, and dedicated his adult life to his children first and foremost. Whether he was helping host a birthday party or a halloween bash, he brought life and light to every gathering, and was a kid at heart. In summer, you could often find him outside watching the kids splash in the pool while he meticulously tended the grill. His steaks & smoked meats were second to none—you’d be hard pressed to find someone who didn’t tell you his ribeyes were the best they’d ever had. He loved music, and shared that with his kids, spending nights talking and listening to R.E.M, Pearl Jam, Green Day, Billy Joel, or any of the other musicians and bands he kept queued up. He listened to new things that the kids recommended to him, too, and took them to see their favorites at concerts and festivals.
Jeff was also a leader and role model for many young people during his time coaching youth soccer. He coached soccer for about 10 seasons, and after stepping back from coaching, stayed heavily involved in supporting Emma’s soccer journey as she progressed to high leagues. His former players will never forget Coach Jeff.
Jeff was also a deeply caring and thoughtful man, providing a listening ear or a shoulder to cry on to those who needed it. He was always ready to put his needs after the needs of others, especially for his children who he loved beyond words, and who loved him deeply in return.
A celebration of life will be held on Monday, December 15th at the Aberle residence in Suffolk. Guests are welcome to visit with the family and pay their respects between 4-7pm. In Jeff’s honor, please bring your favorite memories to share, and wear a funky pair of socks in his memory.