Date of Birth:
Monday, November 9, 1942
Date of Death:
Saturday, February 14, 2026
Age:
83 years old

David V. Abnet

In Loving Memory of David Vance Abnet

A Heartfelt Tribute to a Life Well-Lived

With heavy hearts and fond remembrance, we announce the passing of our beloved, David Vance Abnet, of Eyota, Minnesota, who gained his angel wings on February 14th, 2026, at the age of 83. He lived a long, happy, and productive life. Though our sorrow is deep, we take comfort in the memory of a life filled with love, kindness, humor, service, and generosity. David was a cherished husband, a devoted father, a loving grandparent, a proud Navy veteran, and a loyal friend to all who were lucky enough to know him.

David, or Dave as most knew him, was born on November 9th, 1942, in Omaha, Nebraska. Shortly after he was born, his family moved back to the Abnet family farm in La Crescent, Minnesota where he grew up working on the farm with his father, mother, and five siblings. He graduated from Aquinas High School in La Crosse, Wisconsin in 1960. In 1962 he joined the United States Navy. He served as a Hospital Corpsman, HM-3, and was stationed in the Mediterranean Sea. He served at the Navy Hospital in Morrocco and aboard the aircraft carrier USS Shangri-La (CVA-38) until 1966. He received the National Defense Service Medal. Following his honorable discharge from the Navy, he returned to southeastern Minnesota to work on the Abnet family farm. After that, he took a job working construction on the bridge that now connects Minnesota to Wisconsin near La Crosse. He eventually attended Winona State University, obtaining a bachelor’s degree with a double major in Psychology and Sociology. While attending college he met his equally loving and devoted wife, Linda – they were married in Winona, MN in 1973. David and Linda remained married for 52 years and resided in Rochester, Minnesota for much of that time, but recently moved to Eyota, MN. David worked and played hard; he enjoyed life to the fullest while raising two daughters with Linda. He loved their family vacations road-tripping around the United States visiting National Parks. David’s steadfast commitment to family, friends, and community was evident in every aspect of his life. Whether it was lending a helping hand, sharing words of wisdom, telling a silly joke, or simply offering a warm smile, David touched countless lives with a strong, friendly spirit and a giving heart.

Throughout his journey, David accomplished many things, both great and small. His career in Health Service was marked by dedication, integrity, and a drive to make a positive impact. He was extremely proud to have served his country in the United States Navy. As a member of the Midwest Tool Collectors Association, he collected antique wood working tools. He was a member of the Guild of Metalsmiths and collected, made, and restored knives. Most recently he became a member of the American Legion Post 551 in Eyota, MN.

It was in the everyday moments spent with his family where his life was the fullest and his true character shone brightest. He was immensely proud of the two daughters he raised and in turn the children they raised. He adored watching his grandchildren grow up and attending their sport and dance events. Dave loved his two dogs (Becky and Ginny), and enjoyed spending time outdoors – hunting, camping, and fishing. Dave was, at his core, a family man; he loved and cared for his family with unwavering commitment through good times and bad.

David is survived by Linda, his beloved wife; their two daughters, Melissa Hansen (Justin), and Jessica Curry (Travis); his four grandchildren, Hunter & Noah Hansen, and Leila & Logan Curry who knew him as Opa; several nieces and nephews, and a wide circle of extended family and friends. He is preceded in death by his parents Charles and Angeline Abnet; brothers Gregory Abnet, Charles Abnet, Richard Abnet, Clinton Abnet, and his sister Roseanne Abnet.

Though we mourn the loss of David, we also celebrate the extraordinary gift of his presence in our lives. The memories we shared, the lessons we learned, and the love we received will guide us in the days ahead. As we say goodbye, let us honor David by living with the same compassion, integrity, laughter, and joy that he brought to the world every day. Each of us carries forward a piece of David’s legacy – one defined by love, laughter, faith, and resilience.

A visitation and services will be held on March 23rd, 2026, at River Park Chapel at Macken Funeral Home in Rochester, Minnesota with visitation from 1pm-2pm and services at 2pm. On a Summer Day later this year, David will be buried with military honors at the Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery in Preston, Minnesota. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Alzheimer’s Foundation (https://www.alz.org/). May David rest in peace, his spirit forever cherished and his memory eternally embraced.

Dave, Daddy, Opa – we love you so much and will miss you always. Rest easy.