Paul Abowd obituary: Celebrating a Lifetime of Culinary Excellence and Community Dedication
RENO, Nev. — Paul Leroy Abowd, 96, died March 11 at his home in Reno. A true pioneer in the culinary world and a beloved figure in our Northern Nevada community, Paul was born June 11, 1927 in Fremont Ohio. It was here he began his culinary journey working in family-run restaurants when he was young. This instilled in him a passion for food and hospitality that shaped his extraordinary career.
Paul’s culinary adventure took him from the bustling streets of San Francisco to the charming landscapes of Nevada, leaving an indelible mark along the way. Together with his beloved wife, Adele, Paul embarked on a journey that spanned decades and transcended beyond business ventures, becoming a testament to dedication, hard work, and unwavering commitment to excellence.
From his humble beginnings waiting tables and cooking meals at his first restaurant, Eat, in El Cerrito, Calif., Paul’s entrepreneurial spirit and tireless work ethic propelled him to multiple successes.
With each endeavor, Paul and Adele’s family grew, mirroring the expansion of their restaurant empire, which included the iconic Adele’s Restaurant and Bar in Carson City, Peg’s Glorified Ham and Eggs, and “The Stone House Café in Reno, still operated by his youngest child, Cyrina.
All of these became staples of Nevada’s culinary scene.
Throughout his career, Paul not only served delicious meals but also served his communities with boundless generosity and compassion. He believed in the value of mentoring aspiring young culinary students, dedicating himself to shaping the next generations of restaurateurs. Whether hosting fundraisers, community events or political functions, Paul and Adele’s home was always open, reflecting their deep-rooted belief in giving back to those they served.
In recognition of their outstanding contributions, Nevada Gov. Robert “Bob” Miller issued a proclamation in 1991 honoring Paul and Adele as two remarkable Nevada humanitarians. The Nevada Legislature further extended their admiration and gratitude in 2002 with a Senate Bill recognizing their culinary expertise and energetic service to the people of the state.
Though Paul’s journey was not without its share of challenges, including the loss of his beloved Adele in 2004 and grandson, Eric Abowd, in 2020, his indomitable spirit and passion for feeding people never wavered.
In September 2005, at 78, Paul opened The Stone House Café, a testament to his enduring love for the culinary arts and his dedication to providing exceptional dining experiences.
His legacy extends far beyond the walls of his restaurant; it lives on in the hearts and memories of his children, Charlie (Karen), Michael (Wendy), Colette, and Cyrina, five grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren, extended family and all who had the privilege of knowing him. As Adele often said, Paul believed that feeding and giving to others was one of the greatest honors, a sentiment he cherished until his last day.