Richard L. Rabe

On Wednesday, January 2, 2019, Richard Louis Rabe, loving husband and father, passed away at the age of 77 in Pensacola, Florida. Richard was born on March 24, 1941 in Seguin, TX to Henry and Irene (Beutnagel) Rabe and was the oldest of 4 children. After graduating high school, Richard enlisted in the United States Navy, where he proudly served his country for 21 years before retiring in 1981. He was able to see the world during his service while being stationed in Morocco, Germany, Scotland, and Japan. But it was his time stationed in Pensacola that would have the most lasting impact on him, as it was there that he met and married his sweetheart of 45 years, Mary, on August 28, 1973. Following his time in the Navy Richard attended the University of West Florida where he studied Accounting and Information Systems. He put that education to use and became a small business owner by starting Accounting Software Solutions. It was this company where he used his computer smarts, intellect, and puzzle solving skills, as well as his charm, to his best advantage as he set up and supported accounting software for small businesses. It was after that venture when Richard officially retired and eventually found his true calling when he started Rich’s Rescues, a small bespoke business in which he found old, neglected pieces of furniture that he would then beautifully restore and sell. Beyond furniture restoration, Richard’s special interests were many and varied. He loved working in the backyard where he created a little paradise. It was there that he and Mary hosted many gatherings and fish fries over the years for both friends and family. He loved watching Florida State football (particularly during the Bobby Bowden years), Tampa Bay Buccaneers football, playing golf, sports cars, and solving puzzles. But his biggest interest was in caring for and helping those around him. It is perhaps this that will be remembered most by his friends and family. His compassionate spirit was unrelenting and he was always generous with his time and energy in assisting those who needed it. Richard is survived by his beloved wife Mary of Pensacola, FL; daughters Kimberly (David) Kolarik of Maryville, TN, and Karin (Andrew) Rabe of Houston Texas; 3 grandchildren, Kaitlin Kolarik of Atlanta, GA, Kallie Kolarik of Nashville, TN, and Cameron Kolarik of Fort Collins, CO; siblings, Grace Rabe of Point Comfort, TX, Gladys (Cindy) Rabe of San Antonio, TX, and Larry (Lynda) Rabe of Seguin, TX; as well as numerous nieces and nephews, and, of course, his faithful feline, Squeak. A memorial service will be held on Friday, January 11, 2019 at 10:00 am at Faith Chapel Funeral Home, 100 Beverly Parkway, Pensacola, FL 32505. Interment will follow at Barrancas National Cemetery at NAS Pensacola at 11:30 am. The family will greet friends from 9:00am until the time of service on January 11, 2019. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Richard’s name to the Wounded Warrior Project or the charity of one’s choice. FAITH CHAPEL FUNERAL HOME SOUTH, 100 Beverly Pkwy, is entrusted with the arrangements. You may express your condolences online at www.fcfhs.com

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Richard L. Rabe

March 24, 1941 - January 2, 2019