Robert “Bob” M. Abbe, 74, Owatonna
Robert “Bob” M. Abbe, age 74, of Owatonna, MN, passed away peacefully on May 24, 2024. Bob was born on December 2, 1949, in Waseca, MN, to Melvin and Ordena (Schley) Abbe. He attended Owatonna High School and graduated with the Class of 1967.
Bob earned the prestigious American Farmer Degree from FFA in 1971, reflecting his lifelong dedication to agriculture. Taking over the family farm at the young age of 14, Bob demonstrated an extraordinary work ethic and a deep commitment to his family's legacy. On September 12, 1976, Bob married the love of his life, Janis (Jan) Roemhildt. Together, they built their life on the family farm in Meriden, MN, where Bob's passion for farming flourished.
In addition to his farming, Bob worked for many years at Owatonna Concrete alongside his brother, Ron. Known for his hardworking and caring nature, Bob was a pillar of his community. He was also fun-loving and always enjoyed having a good time, bringing joy and laughter to those around him. His sense of humor and positive outlook were contagious.
Bob is survived by his daughter, Ann (Cort) Lundeen of Edina, MN; his cherished grandchildren, Chelsey and Bode Lundeen; his brother, Ronald Abbe of Owatonna; his sisters, Joyce (Borris) Mokoff of Northfield, MN, Marilyn (Doug) Pirkl of Owatonna, and Linda Wilkenson of New Richland, MN; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Jan; his parents; his mother-in-law and father-in-law, Alvin and Blanche Roemhildt; his sister, Janet Priebe; brothers-in-law, Dennis Priebe and John Wilkenson; sister-in-law, Darlene Abbe; and nephew, Terry Priebe.
Bob's life was one of dedication to his family, his farm, and his community. His legacy is a testament to hard work, love, and resilience. As every farmer puts his land to rest for the winter and brings it back to life in the spring, God has put this farmer to rest. With a spring in his step, he walks the horizon to a new life.
Memorial service will be 2:00 PM Sunday, June 2, 2024, at St. Paul's Lutheran Church, (2781 SW 92nd Ave Meriden, MN 56093). Friends may greet the family from 12:00-2:00 PM before the memorial service at church. A celebration of Bob’s life will be held immediately following the memorial service from 4:00 PM to 6:30 PM at the Mill Event Center (310 2nd Ave SW Waseca, MN 56093). This celebration will also honor his wife, Jan, who passed away on November 22, 2020. Due to COVID-19 restrictions at the time, a proper celebration of her life was not possible.
Rest in peace, Bob. Your legacy will forever be a part of the fields you nurtured and the hearts you touched.
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