Donald E. Abbey, age 95, of McCook, NE, passed away December 28, 2023, at McCook Community Hospital. Don was born March 15, 1928, in Hawarden, IA, to parents Dale and Edna (Stief) Abbey. He was raised on the farm near Hawarden, IA where he attended a rural elementary school, after which he attended Hawarden High School.
On November 17, 1948, Donald married Delores M. Skogman, in Hastings, Nebraska. The couple were blessed with three children: Randy, Kathy, and Kent; and five grandchildren: Kelli, Brett, Sean, Jennifer, and Chelsee. They lived in McCook most of their married life, other than 13 years in Grand Island, where they were both employed.
Don was employed as a route salesman for Stevens 7-UP Bottling Company for 10 years; after which he became a territory salesman for L.J. Messer Auto Parts for 10 years. In 1969, Don began with Miller Manufacturing Company, in Stratton, NE, as a truck and traffic manager, and also a parts manager. The company relocated to Grand Island. Don retired when his plant closed during the farm depression in 1986.
In the 1950’s, Don was part owner and driver of a stockcar and raced for several years in the circuit in and around Nebraska and Kansas. He was an avid NASCAR fan after his own racing years. He also enjoyed hunting and fishing, and outings with his family. Don spent many summers camping at the lakes near McCook, having picnics, swimming, and watching the children water ski. He played baseball with the Honyaks team in McCook.
Don and Delores enjoyed their RV trips and spent 19 winters in the same park in Pharr, TX which became like a second home, making lasting friendships from many states.
Don was a long-time member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles and Elks Clubs. He attended the First Baptist Church in McCook and Grand Island. After which he became a member of the Methodist Church in McCook.
Don was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, Orland (Darlene) Abbey; sisters, Carol (Don) Faulhaber and Arlene (Mac) Kratochvil; and son-in-law, Dan Wallen.
He is survived by his spouse of 75 years, Delores of McCook, NE; children, Randy (Debra) Abbey of Keller, TX, Kathy Wallen of McCook, NE, and Kent (Susan) Abbey of St. Joseph, MO; grandchildren, Kelli Saul of Orlando, FL, Brett Wallen of Kearney, NE, Sean Abbey of Kansas City, MO, Jennifer Abbey (Viet Pham) of Evergreen, CO, and Chelsee (Bryce) Berryman of Wichita Falls, TX; and numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family members.
A funeral service will be held at 2:00 PM on Tuesday, January 2, 2024, at Carpenter-Breland Funeral Home with Pastor Jeff Kelley officiating.
A burial will follow in the Memorial Park Cemetery McCook NE.
Memorials are suggested in his name to be designated at a later date.