Robert N. Abner

LIBERTY, Ind. – Robert N. Abner, age 69, of Liberty, Indiana, died Saturday, October 16, 2021, at Reid Health. Robert was born on May 23, 1952, in Berea, Kentucky, to Robert J. and Irene Abney Abner. He graduated from Richmond High School in 1970. Robert served in the U.S. Air Force from 1971-1975. During his career, he was stationed at Lackland Air Force Base, Shepphard Air Force Base, and he spent his last 2 ½ years at Travis Air Force Base in California. In 1974, Robert earned his staff sergeant stripes. He worked as an aircraft maintenance specialist and was very proud to have worked on the Lockheed C-5 Galaxy, the biggest airplane in the world. Robert spent eight days in Hawaii bringing soldiers back from Vietnam in 1972 and went to Israel for the 11-Day War in 1973. In August 1987, Robert joined the Richmond Fire Department. After serving for 24 years, he retired as an engineer at Station 5 in 2011. Robert loved telling stories about his time on the fire department. He loved his RFD family. Robert was a lifetime member of IAFF Local 1408 (International Association of Fire Fighters) and Loyal Order of Moose Lodge 167. Robert also loved gambling, playing bingo, and playing drums for various bands. He will be missed by many. Survivors include his wife of 48 years, Janet Ladd Abner, to whom he was married June 3, 1973; daughters, Susan (Jeramy) Mikesell and Teresa (Mark) Bell; grandchildren, Maddy Mikesell (Cody Handley), Alex Mikesell, Devan Hill, Shyanne Rader, and Grace Bell; siblings, Mary Ann (James) Eversole, Oscar (Rhonda) Abner, Andy Abner, Lisa (Tommy) White, Terry Abner, Rodney Abner, Casey Abner, Steven (Julie) Lakes, and Jimmy Abner; aunts, Doreen Tuttle and Jean (Kenny) Roberts; numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins; and many friends. He was preceded in death by his son-in-law, Larry J. Hill Jr.; parents; sisters, Charlotte Abner and Jeanette Lakes; brother, Michael Abner; and grandparents. Visitation for Robert N. Abner will be from 5:00 to 9:00 p.m. Wednesday, October 20, 2021, at Doan & Mills Funeral Home, 790 National Road West, Richmond. Funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, October 21, 2021, at Doan & Mills Funeral Home with his nephew, Pastor Robert C. Abner, officiating. Burial will be in Goshen Cemetery with military honors provided by the Wayne County Honor Guard. Memorial contributions may be made to: IAFF Local 1408 Scholarship Fund, P.O. Box 514, Richmond, IN 47375. Condolences may be sent to the family via the guest book at www.doanmillsfuneralhome.com.

Robert N. Abner

May 23, 1952 - October 16, 2021