Richard Dean Abel

Richard Dean Abel, age 77, a native of Vallonia, Indiana and a resident of Seymour, Indiana, passed away on Sunday, December 31, 2023 at his residence surrounded by his beloved family. He was born on August 12, 1946 to the late George Abel and the late Mary (Kinnick) Abel. He was a 1964 graduate of Seymour High School and served his county proudly in the United States Army National Guard.  Richard was an honest, genuine man that mostly kept to himself. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, arrowhead hunting, trapping and anything outdoors. He often said that the river was his church and his favorite place to be. He loved deer hunting, especially his Alaskan excursions and wanted to make sure that Debra and Shelby knew how to process a deer which they do masterfully to this day. He was very handy and could make anything he put his mind to. He enjoyed bird watching, especially eagles and sandhill cranes. 

He is survived by his wife of over 57 years, Sherry (Sullivan) Abel of Seymour, Indiana and one daughter, Debra Abel and her life partner, Timothy Kerkhof of Seymour, Indiana. Two brothers, Robert M. Abel and his wife Barbara E. of Seymour, Indiana and James W. Abel and his wife Diana of Comiskey, Indiana. One sister, Barbara Jean Straight of Freetown, Indiana and Emily Ellis who he loved as his very own daughter. Three grandchildren, Artema Smith, Josiah Abel and C.J Abel-Bernard. One great grandchild, Zyden Dalzell.

He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother, John B. Abel.

In keeping with his wishes the family has chosen cremation and no services with be held. The family requests that memorial donations be directed to Provisions or Schneck Hospice.

Friends are invited to leave condolence messages for the family at www.christensenfamilyfuneral.com

Daniel and Betsy Christensen have been entrusted with the arrangements.