Richard Abbott

Richard Cecil Abbott, 91, of Frankfort, passed away February 13, 2024, at IU Arnett Hospital in Lafayette.  

Born November 20, 1932, in Lebanon, Richard was the son of Cecil and Jessie (Likens) Abbott.  After attending Lebanon High School, Richard ran The Why clothing store from 1952 to 1959.  In the summer of 1959, he began working for Western & Southern Life Insurance Company, opening offices in Lebanon and Frankfort and earned the ranking of 2nd in US Sales.  

Richard moved to Frankfort in 1952 and married Marijane Vinson on June 2, 1952.  She passed away June 8, 1993.  He married Carolyn S. Hendrickson Vandevender on October 22, 1994, and she survives.  Richard enjoyed traveling, including cruises, and wintering in Florida.  He was a former member of Hope United Methodist Church, a member of First Baptist Church, and a former member of Scottish Rite, Shriners, and Masonic Lodge.

Those missing Richard are his wife, Carolyn; children, Gregg (Donna) Abbott and Terri (Larry) Cottrell; bonus children, Todd Vandevender, Carla Kaelin, and Beth Walker; grandchildren, Erin (Denise) Mattingly, Elizabeth Cottrell, Emily (Chris) O’Connell and Ellen Abbott (Dylan Xavier, significant other); bonus grandchildren, William Kaelin, Nathan (Hayley) Kaelin, Leann (Josh) Predolich and Clayton Walker; three great-grandchildren; four bonus great-grandchildren; and brothers, Larry (Shirley) Abbott, and Dan (Peggy) Abbott.

He was preceded in death by his parents; first wife, Marijane; sisters, Lucille Allen and Barbara Piscador; and brothers, Bill and Terry Abbott.

Visitation will be Sunday, February 18, 2024, from 1pm until the start of the memorial service at 3pm at Day & Genda Funeral Home in Frankfort.  Pastor Chuck Williams will officiate.  Memorials in Richard’s name may be made to Clinton County Cancer Society.  Messages of condolence to the family are welcomed at www.dayandgenda.com.