Robert James Abbott

Robert James Abbott passed away June 3, 2020 in Branson, Missouri. 

He was born January 9, 1936 in Montrose, Colorado to May Ellen Derr and Robert George Abbott.  He grew up In Rosita, Colorado on the family ranch and later moved to Canon City, Colorado, when his parents purchased the Carlsbad Natatorium, on the corner of Dozier and Central Ave.

During high school, Bob worked as a lifeguard at the pool and at the Chevy garage on Main Street in Canon City.  He graduated from Canon City High School in 1954. 

He married Mary Margaret O’Riley on October 10, 1954.  They moved to Colorado Springs, where they started their family.  Bob worked for Sinton Dairy in Colorado Springs and was later hired by the United States Post Office.  While working for the USPS, he proudly served residents in Colorado Springs Knob Hill and Antares Stations and later in Canon City.  Bob was a member of the United States Navy Reserves for 12 years, from 1956 to1968.  The family moved back to Canon City in 1971.  Robert retired in 1995, with 38 years of postal employment. 

Robert was a leader for the Boy Scouts of America as a Webelos leader for Pack 91 in Colorado Springs, Pack 132 in Canon City, and a Scout leader for Troop 116 in Canon City.  All three sons and one grandson achieved Eagle Rank and one granddaughter earned the Girl Scout Gold Award.  Robert lived by the scout law.

 He loved our Lord and his church family.  Over the years, Bob served many functions for the Christian Church Disciples of Christ.  He was a Sunday school teacher, Pioneer Club teacher, Elder, Deacon, property chair and van driver.  Bob also served as a volunteer for several Emmaus Walk retreats over the years.

Robert is survived by his wife, Debbie Abbott, of Branson, Missouri; brother, Raymond (Roberta) Abbott, of Center, Colorado and their families; sons, Michael (Kay), of Canon City, Colorado, Robert (Marna), of Greeley, Colorado, Rodney (Robin), of Pueblo West, Colorado;  grandchildren, Christopher Abbott and Katie (Brian) Knellinger, of Canon City, Colorado, Ciara Abbott, Britten Abbott, Janae (Bret) Naber, Wes (Jonelle) Kirkpatrick and Ryan (AnnMarie ) Kirkpatrick, all of Greeley, Colorado, Merrilynn, Johnathan and Kimberly Abbott, of Pueblo West, Colorado and four great-grandchildren.

 Robert was preceded in death by his wife of 56 years, Mary Margaret Abbott, and his parents, Robert George Abbott and May Ellen Derr Abbott Bowyer.

Bob was always very proud of his children and grandchildren and loved to celebrate their accomplishments.  He will be missed.

The family is celebrating Bob’s life with a small family service.  They regret being unable to have a large gathering due to current Covid 19 restrictions.

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