COLUMBUS
Bruce Matthew Abts took his final flight on Saturday, August 21 2021.
Born in Enid Oklahoma on January 19, 1945 to Hank and Dede Abts (both deceased). Bruce grew up following his Dad around to different states for work which thus instilled an excellent work ethic and love for flying. Many of Bruce’s fond memories were from Lake Wawasee, where he visited often with his parents, sister and dog Fritz. Anyone who knew Bruce knew that his love for his dogs was like no other. His love for dogs started at an early age of six when he was in Kindergarten. Him and his dog Cinder would walk to school every morning and Cinder would occasionally pop her head in the window to check on Bruce. At the end of the year Cinder got to be pictured in the yearbook. This is a great example of the great companionship that he shared with all of his dogs. His most recent dog Riley, aka “Big Dog,” joined him on his many trips to Kroger with her unofficial service dog vest that he ordered online.
Bruce had many accomplishments throughout his life; many that he was too proud to share. He was a graduate of Columbus North High School and Howe military school. He continued his education at Hanover College, graduating with a degree in Math. Bruce then went on to attain his pilot’s license and serve in the U.S Air Force during the Vietnam era in the Strategic Air Command as a computer specialist.
He worked in systems development at Indiana Bell, EDS and Cummins Engine Co. Although always professing to be a “redneck,” Bruce possessed an absolutely brilliant mind. He had a quick wit and always had a humorous reply to comments. Bruce’s memory was impeccable and was always the “go to guy” when anyone in the family had trouble recalling an event, name or place.
One of Bruce’s favorite hobbies was Taekwondo. He became involved with Taekwondo 32 years ago and immediately fell in love. He was just recently promoted to seventh degree black belt. Master Abts became a beloved instructor and took pride in all of his students. He not only taught the fundamentals of Taekwondo but integrated the principles of integrity, respect and confidence in his students.
Bruce took fashion cues from no one. His signature everyday look was: a plain black t- shirt designed by the fashion house Fruit of the Loom, black sweatpants from his favorite place ever Kroger, Nike tennis shoes, and always paired with black aviators. His sense of style or lack thereof signified his true self. He never tried to impress anyone or thought he was better than anyone.
Most of all, Bruce was a great father. One of the many things that he instilled was, “You have many gifts. Go out, discover them, and use them.”
Respecting his wishes, there will be no memorial service. In lieu of cards and flowers please make a donation to a charity of your choice in memory of Bruce. As he quoted often “We came into this world with cheering, joy and celebration. We should do so when we leave.”
The family would like to thank all of the hospice nurses and staff for the excellent care he received while there, as well as Four Seasons.
He is survived by his daughter Hannah and her mother Dedra, sister Susan (Jack) Farnham and many extended family members.
