Robert Abshire, 85, of Anderson, passed away peacefully on Oct. 19, 2023, at Community Hospital Anderson.

He was born in Markleville, to Robert and Margaret Eleanor Abshire.

Bob graduated from Middletown High School and Purdue University, then went on to obtain his master's in Education from Ball State University.

Bob taught at Anderson Community Schools, Lawrence Township Schools, and Elwood Schools.

Bob loved to play the saxophone and was in the Purdue Marching Band, then spent many years playing in the Anderson Community Band, Alexandria Community Band, and the Lapel Community Band.

Bob loved his church family and sang in the South Meridian Church of God choir, and before that, in the East Lynn Christian Church Choir. He was also active in the East Lynn Food Pantry for many years and a 4-H leader for many years. He was also active in the Madison County Retired Teachers, where he had served as treasurer.

Bob is survived by his wife of 25 years, Rosalie Abhire; his children, Christopher (Jayna) Abshire, Pam (Erik) Lechlitner, Laurie (Mike) Busch, Rebecca (Brian) Russ; his grandchildren, Courtney (Colin) Darcy, Justin (Ginny) Lechlitner, Stacey Abshire, Ryan (Megan) Lechlitner, Braden (Sarah) Lechlitner, Rachel Russ, Adam Russ, and Nathan Busch; his great-grandchildren, Roland, Marley, Emma, Daniel, Odin, and Nathan; his siblings, Gary (Nancy) Abshire and Janice Carter; several cousins, nieces, and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his first wife of 34 years, Judy Abshire, whom he met in high school.

Visitation will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 26, 2023, at South Meridian Church of God, Anderson, followed by the service at 1 p.m. with Pastor Steve Wimmer officiating. Burial will take place in Mechanicsburg Cemetery, Mechanicsburg.

Memorial contributions may be made in his honor to Faith Promise at South Meridian Church of God.

www.loosecares.com.