IN LOVING MEMORY OF

John Frederick

John Frederick "Rick" Abrell Profile Photo

"Rick" Abrell

May 28, 1952 – August 13, 2024

Obituary

John Fredrick "Rick" Abrell, 72, of Terre Haute, passed away on Tuesday, August 13, 2024, at his home, surrounded by his family, after a courageous battle with cancer. Born on May 28, 1952, in Martinsville, IN, he was the son of John R. and Rita A. (Thompson) Abrell.

Rick is survived by his devoted wife of 52 years, Kathy Abrell; his daughter, Shelly Ogsbury (Brian) of Terre Haute; his sons Shane Abrell (Shannon) of Plainfield and Chris Abrell of Terre Haute. He was a proud grandfather to Brynn Ogsbury, Briley Ogsbury, Alie Abrell, and Casey Abrell, and cherished his great-grandchild, Braxton Abrell. Rick is also survived by his siblings Mark Abrell, Steve Abrell, Shawn Abrell, and Debra Vilchuck of Terre Haute; his sisters-in-law Pat Setty (John) of Ferdinand and Judy Pruett (Chuck) of Rockville; his brother-in-law Ernest Carnegie of Brazil; along with numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, and nephews. He also leaves behind his best friend, Joel Vink, who was a constant source of support and companionship.

The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Paul Helft, Dr. Cindy Yuan, and the medical staff at Simon Cancer Center for their compassionate care.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Rita Abrell; his grandparents, Bluford and Alta Abrell, and Roy and Gretchen Thompson; his aunts Patricia Abrell, Sandra Roudebush, and Vickie Query; and his sister-in-law Emma Carnegie.

Rick served eight years in the Air National Guard and dedicated over 30 years to the grocery business, working in his family's IGA stores in Terre Haute before managing Prairie Creek Market. Following his career in groceries, he pursued his passion for landscaping by starting a small excavation business focused on residential projects.

A lifelong member of Freedom United Methodist Church, Rick was known for his wide array of hobbies. He enjoyed fishing from a young age, taking memorable trips to Minnesota and Canada, and shared this love with his family. A passionate sports enthusiast, Rick played in local men's softball leagues and was an avid St. Louis Cardinals fan. He was deeply involved in community sports, including maintaining the baseball field at Terre Haute South High School and supporting the Boys and Girls Club, Vigo County Youth Football, and Babe Ruth Baseball.

Rick was also a talented poker player, competing in the World Poker Open in Tunica, Mississippi, where he made the final table in the Omaha Hi-Lo tournament. His recent travels included a cruise to Alaska, a fishing trip to Lake Kabetogama, and attending a St. Louis Cardinals game.

Rick will be remembered for his immense kindness, generosity, and sense of humor. Known for his patience and intelligence, he was the go-to person for advice and problem-solving. His legacy is one of compassion and a deep-seated desire to help others.

In accordance with his wishes, Rick will be cremated, and a Celebration of Life will be held. Cremation services are being managed by DeBaun Funeral Homes and Crematory. A Celebration of Life will be held Monday, September 9, 2024 at Maryland Community Church in Terre Haute (46 Campus). Visitation will be from 4:30pm - 5:30pm with service following the visitation.

Rick will be deeply missed but forever cherished in the hearts of those who knew him.

To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of John Frederick "Rick" Abrell, please visit our flower store.

Funeral Services

Visitation

September
9

Maryland Community Church in Terre Haute

4700 Indiana 46, Terre Haute, IN 47802

4:30 - 5:30 pm

Celebration of Life

September
9

Maryland Community Church in Terre Haute

4700 Indiana 46, Terre Haute, IN 47802

5:30 - 7:00 pm

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