Robert "Bob" Abernathy

Robert "Bob" Abernathy, a cherished husband, beloved father, brother, and friend, left a legacy of love, integrity, and passion when he passed away at Good Samaritan Hospital in Vincennes, IN, on March 16, 2024. Born on November 18, 1947, in Robinson, IL, Bob's 76-year journey through life was a testament to the power of hard work, the joy of family, and the impact one individual can make through dedication, service, and kindness.

He graduated from Robinson High School in 1965, and continued his education at Olney Central College, where he studied business and graduated with an associate’s degree in 1967. Bob's career was a narrative of growth and achievement, spanning forty-two and a half years at Victor Dana. He started his tenure with the company as a night shift inspector before becoming the divisional sales manager in Lisle, IL, where he also completed professional development courses in business management at Illinois Benedictine College. Eventually, he moved back to Robinson to be the branch's production control supervisor before finally retiring in 2009, but not before earning the respect and admiration of his peers.

Bob's heart beat in rhythm with his interests, which were as varied as they were vibrant. His faith journey began at the Robinson First United Methodist Church, where he married Beatrice "Bea" Meeks on June 8, 1968, and later, his family transferred their membership to the Otterbein United Methodist Church, where Bob was involved for a number of years. His life was marked by his love for collectible cars-a passion born from having a mechanic as a father. His prized 1936 three-window Ford Coupe was only a part of his collection, that also included a 1931 Essex sedan, a 1934 Ford pickup truck, and a 2002 Chevrolet Camaro Z28-a touching anniversary gift from Bea. As a member of the Crawford County Collectables Car Club and "Old Guys with Hot Rods," Bob's presence was felt in many car shows over the years. He was also a highly active member of the Robinson Lions Club, serving in various leadership roles and becoming fondly known as the "broom guy" for his enthusiastic fundraising efforts.

Bob's mind was that of an architect; he designed and built two homes that stood as pillars of pride in his life. His attention to detail was unmatched, ensuring that every aspect of his vision came to fruition, no matter the challenge. He was a man of few words, but his words carried weight, embodying the epitome of honesty, honor, and ethical living. Bob's legacy also included a delightful quirkiness - he never had enough napkins, collected a vast array of coffee mugs, and could sentimentally recall the origins of many cherished items that had been gifted over the years. It should come as no surprise that he expressed his love through gift-giving, with Christmas being a time of overwhelming generosity. His deep love for his daughter, Jenn, was evident in the way he helped her fulfill her dreams. Anyone who knew Bob could attest to the fact that Bea and Jenn were the center of his world.

Bob lived a life that serves as an inspiration to us all-a reminder to live authentically, love deeply, and pursue our passions with joyful determination. He was a man who spoke more through acts of love than with words, and whose legacy of integrity and generosity continues to resonate in the hearts of his family and community. Though we mourn his absence, we also celebrate the lasting impact of his remarkable life, a life that, by the grace of God, will never end.

He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Beatrice "Bea" Abernathy (Robinson, IL); his daughter & son-in-law, Jennifer & Eric Mills (Princeton, IL); his sister, Diane Kay Thompson (OR); as well as numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Paul & Virginia (Cooper) Abernathy; his sister, Susan Martinez; and his brothers, Glenn Abernathy and James "Jim" Abernathy.

A time of visitation will be held from 4:00-7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, March 20th, at the Goodwine Funeral Home in Robinson. Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, March 21st at the funeral home with Celebrant Curt Goodwine officiating. During the service, family and friends will have the opportunity to share some of their favorite memories of Bob. Burial will be in the Kirk Cemetery, rural Robinson. In honor of the countless hours he gave to the organization, memorials may be made to the "Robinson Lion's Club", and memorial envelopes will be available at the funeral home.