Richard Todd (Dick) Abbott, age 88, of Bradenton, Florida and formerly Williamston, Michigan, passed away on April 8, 2021. Dick passed away peacefully at home with his family at his side after a brief battle with cancer.
Dick was born in Lakemore, Ohio and lived in several locations around Akron, Pennsylvania and eventually settled in Michigan which he and his family considered home. A veteran, he served in the US Navy during the Korea conflict. His working career was in business machine and graphics equipment sales. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, golf and reading but Dick’s real passion was in service to others. Dick loved people. He knew no strangers and dedicated his life to helping others. He spent his life in numerous service organizations, most notably the Masonic Lodge and Shrine. He was active for decades as a Shriner where he ultimately achieved the high position of Potentate of the Elf Khurafeh Temple in Saginaw, Michigan. He worked tirelessly to support and promote Shriners Hospitals for Children. In more recent years, he was actively involved with the Bradenton Elks. Even after his retirement, Dick worked part-time for several years in a Bradenton/Sarasota, Florida funeral home business where he continued supporting and comforting others.
Dick Abbott was a character among characters. He was intelligent, quick-witted, fun loving and always laughing. He called ‘em like he saw ‘em and no one ever had to guess what he was thinking. He will be missed by all who knew and loved him, most especially his life partner-in-crime and adventure, his loving wife Sylvia (June) Abbott to whom he was married for almost 64 years. He is also survived by his children, son, Scott Abbott of Shawnee, Kansas, and daughter, Laurel Abbott of Lapeer, Michigan; brothers, Bruce Abbott and Jim Abbott; grandchildren Andrew Abbott, Logan Abbott, Krista Strobbe-Hanson, Hayden Abbott, Reed Abbott; four great grandchildren, and nieces and nephews.
As in life, Dick preferred to keep things simple. To honor Dick’s wishes there will be no formal funeral or funeral services. He will be laid to rest at Sarasota National Cemetery with military honors. The family will have a small, private memorial at the appropriate time. In lieu of flowers, Dick requested, and his family asks, that any honorarium be made as a donation to Shriners Hospitals for Children.
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