Albert W. “Bud” Abney
It is with great sadness that the family of Albert W. Abney, age 79, known to friends as “Bud”, announces his passing on Thursday, January 16, 2020 with his sister at his bedside. Bud was born May 9th, 1940 in a farmhouse in Hull, Illinois to Albert and Dollye (Vincent) Abney.
Bud had a devoted love for animals. He unfortunately lost his precious dog Angel in a tragic house fire. After Angel’s passing, Bud’s service dog and best friend Rufus entered his life. Rufus provided Bud with unconditional love and enriched his spirit. Bud had a rather exciting life. He graduated from West Pike in 1957 and continued his education at Hannibal LaGrange and Kirksville College before serving his country for 4 years in the United States Army as a medic with a tour in Germany.
Bud spent many years in San Francisco, California where he was a known singer at The Hungry Eye and had the honor to be a part of Liberace’s Singers, many of whom had leading roles on Broadway. Bud received many awards throughout his life including 2nd Place on Ted Mack Amateur Hour with his glorious singing voice and many 1st Place Medals for the Senior Olympics. One of Bud’s proudest moments was being the bearer of the torch in 1968 to Mexico City, Mexico. The torch traveled a distance of 13,620 km including crossing the Atlantic Ocean.
Bud returned home to Illinois in 1994 to spend time with family after the passing of his mother. He was overjoyed to work at the Illinois Veterans Home serving his comrades until his retirement. Bud was incredibly passionate about his business Angel Haven Pet ID Company, often traveling to festivals and Arts and Craft shows to share his testimonial and love for animals. Bud’s other passion in life was shopping at local thrift stores where he made many wonderful friends.
He is survived by:
FOUR SIBLINGS: Ron (Joyce) Abney, Terry (Donna) Abney, Vikki Kirsch and Dottie (Larry) Daggs.
His good friend Jim Nichols whom he loved like a brother, as well as numerous nieces, nephews and other relatives also survive.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Although our hearts are heavy, we will celebrate a life well lived with beautiful memories and find comfort in the fact that Bud had a long-standing love for his savior. Bud’s precious dog Rufus will be going to a loving home in Chicago with Tom and Debbie. Bud will be forever remembered for his caring heart and his enthusiasm and loyalty for the St. Louis Cardinals.
Memorials may be made to Bud’s family.
Cremation rites have been accorded. A private burial will take place at a later time. The Duker & Haugh Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.
Vicki I’m so sorry to hear this about Bud it breaks my heart! I’m so glad I work at the Salvation Army when I did so I could meet him! Loved him dearly and will truly miss him!.Hugs to you and your family.
Sympathies to Dottie and the rest of the family. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Bud was so excited every summer when it was time for Dog Days of Summer at the Mall in Quincy. He always wanted to be involved with Homeward Bound Waggin Rescue. He was one of our best venders and we always enjoyed him. He always smiled and had a good word for everyone. We will miss you but we will always have good memories. Thank you Bud.
Bud had a kind heart and a gentle soul. He has been a dear friend for many years and I will miss him . His friendship was a gift. My sincere condolences to his family and Rufus whom he loved so very much. . You are in my thoughts and prayers.
On behalf of the ladies of the BLP Holiday Gift Show, I want to send our sincere condolences. Bud was one of our favorite vendors. He was such a kind person and always told me how good God was so good to him. We are going to miss him so much. We have been so blessed to have known him. God Bless you Bud!!
Bud was more than a customer at the store, he was a friend. He will be missed. He was a kind man.
Bud made quite an impression on me. I met him while organizing a dog event which he was going to have a booth in. After spending hours talking one day, the next day his home burnt down and he lost his best friend. My heart broke for him. I gather donations and a special statue for his best friend and went over to see him. Even though we didn’t know each other, he enter my heart in our first conversation. Later I saw him while visiting my dad (who has since past). They lived in the same building and I got to meet his new best friend. Bud was very special to me and I know many others. Know you are all in my thoughts and prayers.