Robert Leo Abelman passed away on November 8th 2009 at his home peacefully in Chilliwack at age 67 years. He was born on May 2nd 1942 in Barwick, Ontario to Gustav and Gesine Abelman (predeceased).
Robert is survived by his 3 children Deborah Lee Vadder (Markus), Liza Dawn Abelman, Darren Paul Abelman (Natasha), sister Lorraine Scholler (David), and eight grandchildren Daniel, Megan, Logan, Michaela, Tamara, Riley, Mayah, and Seth.
He was predeceased by his brother James, sisters Arlene and Alma, and Robert’s wife of 46 years Roberta (Bobbie) Sparkle Abelman.
As a young man, Robert was an avid outdoorsman and loved hunting, particularly for deer and he loved trap-setting. He was a great fisherman and loved going fishing with his friends. Robert was also part of a local 4-H Club.
“Leo” attended Indus School (Minnesota) and worked for the Victor Lindgren family in Manitou, Minnesota and MtO Paper for about three years. Robert was drafted into the US Army in 1960-1962 for basic training at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri and he served time in Korea. Robert also raced stock-cars.
“Leo” married his wife Roberta, May 1st 1965 and had three children. The family moved to Port Renfrew. For ten years, he worked for BCFP as a heavy-duty mechanic working on all types of heavy machinery.
Robert was hard-working (“jack of all trades”) and was good at everything he set his hands to do. He was very giving of his time and expertise to help others. He also loved to tell jokes. He was fun loving and lived life to the fullest. He also loved bartending and worked at the McDonald Hotel in Prince George, BC.
Robert loved his family dearly, especially the grandkids. He was known for his homemade beef jerky. He will be dearly missed!
A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Saturday, November 28th, 2009 at 11:00 a.m. from the Faith Bible Church, 2455 West Railway Street, Abbotsford, BC.
Online condolences can be left at www.hendersonsfunerals.com