David Abblitt

David Allen Abblitt

David Allen Abblitt, 81, of Central Point, Oregon, passed away peacefully on June 17, 2026. He was born on July 4, 1944, in Long Beach, California, to William Elroy Abblitt and Margaret Jane Abblitt.

David lived a life marked by service, hard work, adventure, and an unwavering devotion to family and friends. A proud United States Army veteran of the Vietnam War, David served with Troop A, 3rd Squadron 4th Cavalry, 25th Infantry Division (1966-1967), as a Rifleman and "tunnel rat." His courage and dedication earned him the Bronze Star Medal, an honor he carried with great pride throughout his life. His military service remained one of the defining aspects of his character, shaping the resilience, loyalty, and sense of duty that he brought to every chapter of his life. Military service was a proud tradition in the Abblitt family. David was the son of Colonel William Elroy Abblitt, USMC (Ret.), and was joined in that legacy by his brothers, Lieutenant Colonel Donald Abblitt, USMC (Ret.), and Colonel Robert Abblitt, USMC (Ret.).

Born and raised in Southern California, David embraced the coastal lifestyle of his youth, spending countless days surfing and fishing. Over the course of his life, he built several successful careers, beginning in the photography industry and later serving as an executive with a marketing firm specializing in the hospitality industry. He eventually founded and operated an antique refinishing and caning business, where his craftsmanship and attention to detail earned the respect of customers and friends alike.

David was known for his sharp intelligence, quick wit, and remarkable gift for storytelling. He could strike up a conversation with anyone, anywhere, and often did. Fiercely loyal to his family and friends, he was a steadfast ally to those he loved. He was also proudly stubborn and frugal, qualities he often attributed with a smile to his "Scots" heritage.

Later in life, David and Susan spent time living in Illinois and Missouri before eventually settling in Southern Oregon. There, David found fulfillment in caring for his property and tending to the animals he loved, including his beloved wolf, Sheeba, and horses Little Man, Dixon, and Patriot. He fully embraced the cowboy lifestyle that became a cherished part of his identity. While he enjoyed many pursuits throughout his life, some of his greatest joys in later years came from sitting with family and friends over a cup of coffee, sharing stories, laughter, and wisdom gathered from a life well lived.

David was preceded in death by his parents, Colonel William Elroy Abblitt, USMC (Ret.), and Margaret Jane Abblitt; his brother, Dr. James B. Abblitt, and his infant children, Denise Abblitt and Jason Abblitt.

He is survived by his wife, Susan Lee Abblitt; his children, Brandon (Tonia) Abblitt, Devon (Nicole) Abblitt, Kayla (Ryan) Tade, Ashley (Joshua) Colson, Heather Sorrels, and Gage Abblitt; his grandchildren, Brianna, Dustin, Kohta, Honor, Joey, Braeghan, Everett, and Gunnar; his great-grandchild, Colbie; his brothers, Lieutenant Colonel Donald (Karen E.) Abblitt, USMC (Ret.), Colonel Robert (Karen L.) Abblitt, USMC (Ret.), and Pastor Richard (Kristi) Abblitt; and his sister-in-law, Randi Abblitt, widow of his brother, Dr. James B. Abblitt. He is also survived by many beloved nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

David's life carried him from the beaches of Southern California, through the jungles of Vietnam, and later to homes in Illinois, Missouri, and ultimately Southern Oregon. Along the way, he built a legacy of courage, loyalty, humor, and family that will endure in the hearts of all who knew him. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by the many lives he touched.

In recognition of David's service to his country, a small graveside service with military honors and an honor guard will be held at Hillcrest Memorial Park in Grants Pass, Oregon