Potter County News

Rich Abler


Richard Abler, 57, Hoven, died Friday, May 17, 2019 at the Bowdle Hospital. Mass of Christian Burial was held Tuesday, May 21 at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church, Hoven, with Father Kevin Doyle, Celebrant. Burial followed at the church cemetery.

Richard Gordon Abler, son of Loretta (Hartung) and Virgil Abler, was born May 8, 1962 in Hoven. He was brought up at his parent’s farm 4 miles west and 1½ miles south of Hoven. Rich’s formal education consisted of St. Anthony’s Parochial School and Hoven High School, Class of 1980. His entire work life involved agricultural endeavors including farming, ranching, trucking, and hay grinding. 

Rich married Shari Rausch at St. Anthony’s Church on July 9, 1988. They settled on the Abler farm where Rich lived the rest of his life. He was a member of St. Anthony’s Catholic Church and served on the Potter County Weed Board more than 10 years. 

Among Rich’s favorite things were flying his airplane, cracking jokes, and taking his family on vacations. 

Rich is survived by Shari, his wife of 30 years; one daughter, Chelsey (Alex) Hunnel, of Sioux Falls, three sons, Chad (Jonie) Abler, Troy Abler, and Trent Abler all of Hoven; three sisters, Kathy Williams of Hoven, Susie (Kevin) Gregg of Rapid City, and Carla (Marlin) Nipp of Pierre; and two grandchildren, Ryder Richard and Maddie Mae.

He was preceded in death by his father, Virgil, on May 13, 2016; his mother, Loretta, on Dec. 22, 1990; one sister, Janet Breen, on May 21, 2002; brother-in-law, Ed Williams, on Jan. 8, 2013; and two nephews, Michael Breen and Joshua Hericks.

Services are in care of Lien Funeral Home, Bowdle. Visit www.MillerLienFH.com to leave an online condolence or to view the tribute video.

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