Robert H. Abel Jr.

I am thankful to have his books to go back to in order to hear his voice and wonderfully insightful wit. Bob and I first met as freshmen roommates along with Dave Wright at the College of Wooster in Ohio. We became fast friends. Had I only followed his example in terms of hitting the books and getting to classes on a regular basis, the College of Wooster and I might have a longer relationship, but I often remember his enthusiasm for learning new things and making the best of the many...

No one I've ever known had a more profound sense of the absurd, or a more life-affirming sense of humor. And like Li Po, he loved to fish! To lose him as the plums bloom and before the bluefish start to run robs both those spectacles of their majesty. The world is a smaller place without Bob. We will all try to expand it with his memory.

Without Bob's friendship over these more than forty-five years, my life would have been much different, and poorer. His intelligence, humanity, loyalty, and sense of fun were matchless, in my experience. It was a great privilege to share, as best I could, his time on earth.

I am deeply sorry for the loss of Robert. May God's loving kindness bring peace and comfort during this sad and difficult time. Psalms 29:11

Sorry I missed the memorial gathering. I will hold onto the memories of the lunches with Bob and Wally that continued up to Bob's passing. Bob was a rare combination of creative talent,gentleness, and humility, seasoned by a fierce conviction that human beings can, and should, do more to combat the injustices that cause pain and suffering to so many of the planet's inhabitants. I will miss Bob's friendship very much. Our world is better for having been graced with his presence.
My...

Through a number of reunion lunches and Facebook, Bob and I got reacquainted and I'm so glad we did. I will always remember him for his fine wit, his writing, and his overall goodness as a human being. RIP, Bob and my condolences to Joyce and their family and friends.

Bob was a professor at VCFA and a good friend. I appreciated him so much. He meant so much to me. I am so saddened by his passing. May his memory be a blessing to all of you and comfort to me.

Joyce and family, I was so sad to learn through the Mentor High School grape vine about Bob's (or as I first knew him, Robin's) death. He was my go to person when I wanted a suggestion for a great book to read. I've been following via FaceBook the brave fight he was putting up...almost always with his usual sense of humor. He will be sorely missed.
Much love and sympathy to you all. Anne

Sorry about your loss, I will miss my high school old friend