Brent Thomas Abbs

Brent Thomas Abbs

brent abbs
Brent Thomas Abbs, 26, of Essexville, took his last breath on earth and his first breath in heaven on the morning of Tuesday, October 7, 2014 at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center, surrounded by his loving family. Brent was born in Midland on May 25, 1988, the son of Guy Pomeroy and Marilyn Sue (Harmon) Abbs. He was a 2006 graduate of Garber High School and went on to attend Central Michigan University and the University of Cincinnati. A dedicated employee of ACE Hardware, while in Michigan, Brent worked for Woodside ACE Hardware and later for Clifton ACE Hardware during his time in Cincinnati. Brent had a true love for fishing and hunting. He will forever be remembered for his larger than life personality, his wonderful smile that would light up the entire room and his awesome hugs. Brent never knew a stranger and loved meeting new people. His compassionate and caring ways will live on in the hearts of his family and friends for generations to come. Left to remember him forever are his loving parents, Guy & Marilyn Abbs. Brent was the younger brother of Chad (Jill) Abbs, Tyler (Stacey Skorupski) Abbs and the proud uncle of Rory Abbs. Brent is also survived by his aunts and uncles, Marsha (Jim) Kaufmann, James (Debra) Harmon, Jay (Peggy) Abbs, Kay (Michael) Meyer; great-aunts, Mary Jane Swartz, Delia King, Patricia Fortin; great-uncle, C.J. Fostin, along with numerous cousins and friends. Brent was welcomed home to heaven by his grandparents, Paul and Mabel Abbs and James and Othella Maxine Harmon. On Saturday, November 1, 2014, Brent's family will be present to receive visitors from 12:00 Noon until the time of his 1:00 PM Celebration of Life at Grace Christian Fellowship, 2303 Amelith Rd., Bay City. Memorial contributions in memory of Brent may be directed to the wishes of the family. Final arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Skorupski Family Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 955 N. Pine Rd., Hampton Twp. Expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family online at www.skorupskis.com

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  1. What a truly beautiful, loving soul has left us today. Brent will be deeply missed by us as well as everyone who was lucky enough to know him. We grieve along with his family.
    It is so hard to accept this sad, sad news. We send our sympathies to his whole family. You must be so proud of this beautiful soul, Brent. May he rest in peace.
    With loving thoughts,
    Margot & Harry Gotoff

  2. Brent was a great friend and will greatly be missed. Coming over to your guys home during high school years to play video games and poker downstairs are some fond memories with Brent and the gang. You should be proud knowing the fact you raised a wonderful son that did the right thing. I wish the best for your family through this difficult time. RIP “Babbs”

  3. Guy, Marilyn, and the rest of the family,
    Our hearts are so heavy for you with the news of Brent’s passing. We know that you entrusted Brent to God and know that he belongs to Him, but also know that this parting is deeply painful. We pray God’s comfort to you and know that He will hold you close as you mourn and journey through this shadowy valley.
    All our love,
    Lee & Susan Copeland

  4. A heart that fostered constant good will
    will be missed by all who knew you
    you won’t be forgotten that much is true
    so long for now, but not goodbye
    the thought you have never been more alive
    will dry the tears from our eyes
    and when playing tennis on the big court in the sky
    remember to GET YOUR FIRST SERVE IN!!!

    Jeff Newingham

  5. I am so deeply sorry for your loss. I remember Brent from Cramer Junior High School. He and my son Adam were friends back then. They sat next to each other in 7th grade band. I remember at the concert.. they were talking. A light memory for you I hope. My whole family expresses their condolences. You are such a wonderful family. Brent will be remembered forever. The Rongo Family.

  6. Marilyn, I am so sorry for your loss. You have been so strong during this difficult time. My thoughts and continued prayers are with you and your family.
    Greg Becker

  7. So incredibly saddened to hear the news of Brent’s passing. He was a fellow member of the class of ’06 and a fellow Chippewa. The last time I saw Brent was at the CMU Bookstore when I worked there in college. We paused in the Under Armour section and chatted about what we were up to and plans for the future. That moment always stuck with me because it really defined what a good person Brent was, and I was glad we shared that moment that day. I’m thinking of his family during this difficult time and hoping they find peace in joyful memories.

    Allison (Wischmeyer) Heintzelman

  8. Guy, I am sorry to hear of your family’s loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this difficult time. Deb Bala

  9. Guy, there are absolutely no words to express how deeply sorry we are for your loss. Please know that you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers as you walk through this valley. May the Peace that passes ALL understanding be ever present with you all. – Blessings, Debbie Darby (Jackson Campus) and Rick.

  10. I am so very sorry for your great loss. I pray that loving memories of your wonderful and beloved son will help to bring you comfort and peace in the days to come.
    Ruth Perry (Lanier Tech)

  11. Guy, Marilyn, Chad, and Tyler,
    Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this unimaginable time. Because the pain is so immense, let us remember how Brent’s smile, empathy, and sense of humor. I am privileged to have known him and have him call Jeff and me “coach”. Brent, in turn, coached so many others on his journey through life. He truly made an impact on everyone he met.
    Hugs,
    Nancy and Mark Brissette

  12. I met Brent (Babbs) at CMU 5 years ago. He was one of the most genuine, caring and thoughtful people I have ever met. In college if I needed anything- he would drop whatever he was doing and come without a second thought. From dropping his studies, to jump start my car when it wouldn’t start… to going to get me cold medicine when I was sick in bed..he always looked out for me and was the Big Brother I never had. There was even one occasion where he brought me a (sorry for the bluntness)- but a tampon to class…because I needed one, and he was close by. He even endured my Dad’s large family..when I drug him to a family reunion with me. (And they are not the easiest group to be around). He was always there for me…and he always, always would make you laugh. If it was watching a funny cat video on Youtube, or simply saying something sweet- he made an effortless point. And he was that way with everyone. He was this positive ball of energy and life. He was extremely supportive, and so genuinely caring-. even after CMU, when we were states apart. When a friendship evolves from seeing each other almost every day, to living in separate places, not all friendships can adjust…but I am forever thankful that ours did. For my birthday, our last year at Central, Brent gave me his fraternity pin. That night I put it on my jacket, and it is still there today.- I will never take it off. He was, and will always be someone I consider to be one of my best friends. My thoughts are with his family- You raised such a wonderful person- with the biggest heart. He was a gentleman, a sincere soul and a kind person. Something that is beyond rare today. I am so sorry for your loss…Sending you lots of love today and everyday. He is dearly missed~

  13. Marilyn,

    My heart is heavy….. you all have been in my thoughts and prayers this last week, and will continue to be as I share what I can only imagine a mother’s grief to be. Hoping our prayers will lift you and yours, and wrap you in His loving care.

  14. To the Abbs Family, Our heart’s goes out to your family during this difficult time. Your deeply in our thoughts and prayers. Brent graduated with our son Shane who was killed in an auto accident in 2011. May you be comforted by all your family and friends in the days ahead and keep his memories close to your heart. May God Bless You!! Don and Linda (Henika) Niedrich & Kyle

  15. Guy, Marilyn & Abbs Family,
    You all have been in my daily thoughts and prayers over the last couple of weeks, and will continue. Cherish the precious memories of Brent, and I pray God will wrap his arms around all of you and grant you peace, just as Brent is now at peace, and smiling down at all of us. Paula Davidson (Lanier Tech)

  16. I used to work with Brent at ace hardware in Cincinnati Ohio.He always had great advice and he could fix anything..He was a Big teddy bear and I was lucky enough to call him my friend he was an amaZing friend. He would do or say anything to put a smile on my face.. He was like a brother to me and will forever me missed you raised one Hell of a man!!!! miss you Brent

  17. Marilyn-
    My deepest sympathy in your time of sorrow. I will pray for you and your family and always keep you in my heart. Just know, your friends are here for you at all times. Bless you and your wondereful family.
    Jim Davenport

  18. We are so very sorry and saddened to hear of your family’s loss. May the Lord give you all the strength and peace to ease your grief and pain. Prayers are sent.
    The Rose Family – Anne, Jonathan, & Steven

  19. Guy, even though I moved to Florida to teach, I was sadden by the news of your son Brent. I don’t know much about him, but if he was anything like you he was a great young man.

    I can honestly say I have no idea of what you must be going through, but you have my deepest condolences and I have always believe a parent should never out live a child.

    Please feel free to contact me if there is anything you need in this time of grief. I will send you my contact information.

    Please take care,

    -Sam Ajlani

  20. This has just hit me, and I still cannot fathom that he is gone. I was honored having the pleasure to coach him during his years at Garber, and I am proud for the young man I will always remember who put all into everything he pursued.

  21. Guy and Marilyn,
    So sorry to hear about your loss. I fondly remember Brent’s smiling face at Science O and at Ace Hardware..
    Take care,
    Sue Hunter

  22. We all lost more than a dear friend, we lost one of the most remarkable people to grace the earth. A person with not only the common sense, people skills, and also a brilliant mind. A mind that would have propelled him to be one of the best doctors to this day. Every time he would show up for work at the hardware, he had a personality that was capable of illuminating the room. Those were good times at the hardware, they’ve been missed ever sense we have moved on to different things, but those memories were always cherished, even from the goofy “hide the keys” game we used to play, which pretty much meant that he would take your car keys, stash them somewhere, look at you with his big goofy smile and say, “good luck”. Whether or not religion is part of your daily life, I have found some peace, that a mind that brilliant was needed up there for more than it could be utilitized down here. I’ll see you up there one day buddy.

    Best wishes to the Abbs family and everyone else that was close to him,

    -Ryan Kuerbitz

  23. To the Abbs family, We are so deeply saddened by your loss. Our family continues to keep you in prayer. The Britko’s

  24. Guy and Marilyn, My heart is breaking at the news of your loss. I truly understand what you are going through. Three years ago we lost our son to the same illness. Please trust in your faith to get you through each day. Remember every moment you had with Brent with a smile and love in your heart. He will be with you as you continue your journey in this world and will be waiting for you. Prayers to all of you. Love, Maxine and Bill Kauffold

  25. Guy, thinking of you and your family during this time. I know from listening to your stories your son was a great man with a desire to help people. God knew it too for now Brent can do so from God’s side.

  26. Marilyn, Guy, Chad, and Tyler
    There are absolutely no words to express how deeply pained we are to learn about Brent. Such a remarkable young man; such an immense loss. May the Peace that passes All understanding be ever present with all of you as you journey through this excruciating anguish. Our prayers are with you daily. Much Love, Barb & Dick Peters

  27. Guy and Marilyn,

    There are no words that can express how sad the loss of a child. I remember Brent well and he always had a smile. Your family is in our thoughts and prayers.

    Marilee Greene

  28. So sadden to hear of Brent passing. Our prayers and thoughts for Brent and family. Tony, Barry, Halie Smith.

  29. Marilyn, Guy, Chad & Tyler,
    Sorry for you loss. Thoughts & prayers to your family.
    Charlie & Nancy Rochow

  30. Under His wings I am safely abiding;
    Tho’ the night deepens and tempests are wild,
    Still I can trust Him; I know He will keep me;
    He has redeemed me, and I am His child.

    Under His wings, under His wings,
    Who from His love can sever?
    Under His wings my soul shall abide,
    Safely abide forever. (W. O. Cushing)

    Guy & Marilyn, Chad and Tyler, just as you are lost for words to express your pain and sorrow so are we to find words to take away your pain and sorrow. Please know that Brent is fully restored, radiant, smiling and joyful in the grace of the Father, and you WILL be reunited for all eternity. Brent fulfilled his purpose here on earth in such a short time.

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brentabbs
Brent Thomas Abbs, 26, of Essexville, took his last breath on earth and his first breath in heaven on the morning of Tuesday, October 7, 2014 at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center, surrounded by his loving family. Brent was born in Midland on May 25, 1988, the son of Guy Pomeroy and Marilyn Sue (Harmon) Abbs. He was a 2006 graduate of Garber High School and went on to attend Central Michigan University and the University of Cincinnati. A dedicated employee of ACE Hardware, while in Michigan, Brent worked for Woodside ACE Hardware and later for Clifton ACE Hardware during his time in Cincinnati. Brent had a true love for fishing and hunting. He will forever be remembered for his larger than life personality, his wonderful smile that would light up the entire room and his awesome hugs. Brent never knew a stranger and loved meeting new people. His compassionate and caring ways will live on in the hearts of his family and friends for generations to come. Left to remember him forever are his loving parents, Guy & Marilyn Abbs. Brent was the younger brother of Chad (Jill) Abbs, Tyler (Stacey Skorupski) Abbs and the proud uncle of Rory Abbs. Brent is also survived by his aunts and uncles, Marsha (Jim) Kaufmann, James (Debra) Harmon, Jay (Peggy) Abbs, Kay (Michael) Meyer; great-aunts, Mary Jane Swartz, Delia King, Patricia Fortin; great-uncle, C.J. Fostin, along with numerous cousins and friends. Brent was welcomed home to heaven by his grandparents, Paul and Mabel Abbs and James and Othella Maxine Harmon. On Saturday, November 1, 2014, Brent's family will be present to receive visitors from 12:00 Noon until the time of his 1:00 PM Celebration of Life at Grace Christian Fellowship, 2303 Amelith Rd., Bay City. Memorial contributions in memory of Brent may be directed to the wishes of the family. Final arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Skorupski Family Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 955 N. Pine Rd., Hampton Twp. Expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family online at www.skorupskis.com

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  1. So incredibly saddened to hear the news of Brent’s passing. He was a fellow member of the class of ’06 and a fellow Chippewa. The last time I saw Brent was at the CMU Bookstore when I worked there in college. We paused in the Under Armour section and chatted about what we were up to and plans for the future. That moment always stuck with me because it really defined what a good person Brent was, and I was glad we shared that moment that day. I’m thinking of his family during this difficult time and hoping they find peace in joyful memories.

    Allison (Wischmeyer) Heintzelman

  2. Marilyn, I am so sorry for your loss. You have been so strong during this difficult time. My thoughts and continued prayers are with you and your family.
    Greg Becker

  3. A heart that fostered constant good will
    will be missed by all who knew you
    you won’t be forgotten that much is true
    so long for now, but not goodbye
    the thought you have never been more alive
    will dry the tears from our eyes
    and when playing tennis on the big court in the sky
    remember to GET YOUR FIRST SERVE IN!!!

    Jeff Newingham

  4. I am so deeply sorry for your loss. I remember Brent from Cramer Junior High School. He and my son Adam were friends back then. They sat next to each other in 7th grade band. I remember at the concert.. they were talking. A light memory for you I hope. My whole family expresses their condolences. You are such a wonderful family. Brent will be remembered forever. The Rongo Family.

  5. What a truly beautiful, loving soul has left us today. Brent will be deeply missed by us as well as everyone who was lucky enough to know him. We grieve along with his family.
    It is so hard to accept this sad, sad news. We send our sympathies to his whole family. You must be so proud of this beautiful soul, Brent. May he rest in peace.
    With loving thoughts,
    Margot & Harry Gotoff

  6. Brent was a great friend and will greatly be missed. Coming over to your guys home during high school years to play video games and poker downstairs are some fond memories with Brent and the gang. You should be proud knowing the fact you raised a wonderful son that did the right thing. I wish the best for your family through this difficult time. RIP “Babbs”

  7. Guy, Marilyn, and the rest of the family,
    Our hearts are so heavy for you with the news of Brent’s passing. We know that you entrusted Brent to God and know that he belongs to Him, but also know that this parting is deeply painful. We pray God’s comfort to you and know that He will hold you close as you mourn and journey through this shadowy valley.
    All our love,
    Lee & Susan Copeland

  8. Guy, I am sorry to hear of your family’s loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this difficult time. Deb Bala

  9. Guy, there are absolutely no words to express how deeply sorry we are for your loss. Please know that you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers as you walk through this valley. May the Peace that passes ALL understanding be ever present with you all. – Blessings, Debbie Darby (Jackson Campus) and Rick.

  10. I met Brent (Babbs) at CMU 5 years ago. He was one of the most genuine, caring and thoughtful people I have ever met. In college if I needed anything- he would drop whatever he was doing and come without a second thought. From dropping his studies, to jump start my car when it wouldn’t start… to going to get me cold medicine when I was sick in bed..he always looked out for me and was the Big Brother I never had. There was even one occasion where he brought me a (sorry for the bluntness)- but a tampon to class…because I needed one, and he was close by. He even endured my Dad’s large family..when I drug him to a family reunion with me. (And they are not the easiest group to be around). He was always there for me…and he always, always would make you laugh. If it was watching a funny cat video on Youtube, or simply saying something sweet- he made an effortless point. And he was that way with everyone. He was this positive ball of energy and life. He was extremely supportive, and so genuinely caring-. even after CMU, when we were states apart. When a friendship evolves from seeing each other almost every day, to living in separate places, not all friendships can adjust…but I am forever thankful that ours did. For my birthday, our last year at Central, Brent gave me his fraternity pin. That night I put it on my jacket, and it is still there today.- I will never take it off. He was, and will always be someone I consider to be one of my best friends. My thoughts are with his family- You raised such a wonderful person- with the biggest heart. He was a gentleman, a sincere soul and a kind person. Something that is beyond rare today. I am so sorry for your loss…Sending you lots of love today and everyday. He is dearly missed~

  11. Marilyn,

    My heart is heavy….. you all have been in my thoughts and prayers this last week, and will continue to be as I share what I can only imagine a mother’s grief to be. Hoping our prayers will lift you and yours, and wrap you in His loving care.

  12. To the Abbs Family, Our heart’s goes out to your family during this difficult time. Your deeply in our thoughts and prayers. Brent graduated with our son Shane who was killed in an auto accident in 2011. May you be comforted by all your family and friends in the days ahead and keep his memories close to your heart. May God Bless You!! Don and Linda (Henika) Niedrich & Kyle

  13. Guy, Marilyn, Chad, and Tyler,
    Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this unimaginable time. Because the pain is so immense, let us remember how Brent’s smile, empathy, and sense of humor. I am privileged to have known him and have him call Jeff and me “coach”. Brent, in turn, coached so many others on his journey through life. He truly made an impact on everyone he met.
    Hugs,
    Nancy and Mark Brissette

  14. Guy, Marilyn & Abbs Family,
    You all have been in my daily thoughts and prayers over the last couple of weeks, and will continue. Cherish the precious memories of Brent, and I pray God will wrap his arms around all of you and grant you peace, just as Brent is now at peace, and smiling down at all of us. Paula Davidson (Lanier Tech)

  15. I am so very sorry for your great loss. I pray that loving memories of your wonderful and beloved son will help to bring you comfort and peace in the days to come.
    Ruth Perry (Lanier Tech)

  16. I used to work with Brent at ace hardware in Cincinnati Ohio.He always had great advice and he could fix anything..He was a Big teddy bear and I was lucky enough to call him my friend he was an amaZing friend. He would do or say anything to put a smile on my face.. He was like a brother to me and will forever me missed you raised one Hell of a man!!!! miss you Brent

  17. Marilyn-
    My deepest sympathy in your time of sorrow. I will pray for you and your family and always keep you in my heart. Just know, your friends are here for you at all times. Bless you and your wondereful family.
    Jim Davenport

  18. We are so very sorry and saddened to hear of your family’s loss. May the Lord give you all the strength and peace to ease your grief and pain. Prayers are sent.
    The Rose Family – Anne, Jonathan, & Steven

  19. Guy, even though I moved to Florida to teach, I was sadden by the news of your son Brent. I don’t know much about him, but if he was anything like you he was a great young man.

    I can honestly say I have no idea of what you must be going through, but you have my deepest condolences and I have always believe a parent should never out live a child.

    Please feel free to contact me if there is anything you need in this time of grief. I will send you my contact information.

    Please take care,

    -Sam Ajlani

  20. This has just hit me, and I still cannot fathom that he is gone. I was honored having the pleasure to coach him during his years at Garber, and I am proud for the young man I will always remember who put all into everything he pursued.

  21. We all lost more than a dear friend, we lost one of the most remarkable people to grace the earth. A person with not only the common sense, people skills, and also a brilliant mind. A mind that would have propelled him to be one of the best doctors to this day. Every time he would show up for work at the hardware, he had a personality that was capable of illuminating the room. Those were good times at the hardware, they’ve been missed ever sense we have moved on to different things, but those memories were always cherished, even from the goofy “hide the keys” game we used to play, which pretty much meant that he would take your car keys, stash them somewhere, look at you with his big goofy smile and say, “good luck”. Whether or not religion is part of your daily life, I have found some peace, that a mind that brilliant was needed up there for more than it could be utilitized down here. I’ll see you up there one day buddy.

    Best wishes to the Abbs family and everyone else that was close to him,

    -Ryan Kuerbitz

  22. Guy and Marilyn,
    So sorry to hear about your loss. I fondly remember Brent’s smiling face at Science O and at Ace Hardware..
    Take care,
    Sue Hunter

  23. To the Abbs family, We are so deeply saddened by your loss. Our family continues to keep you in prayer. The Britko’s

  24. Guy and Marilyn, My heart is breaking at the news of your loss. I truly understand what you are going through. Three years ago we lost our son to the same illness. Please trust in your faith to get you through each day. Remember every moment you had with Brent with a smile and love in your heart. He will be with you as you continue your journey in this world and will be waiting for you. Prayers to all of you. Love, Maxine and Bill Kauffold

  25. Marilyn, Guy, Chad, and Tyler
    There are absolutely no words to express how deeply pained we are to learn about Brent. Such a remarkable young man; such an immense loss. May the Peace that passes All understanding be ever present with all of you as you journey through this excruciating anguish. Our prayers are with you daily. Much Love, Barb & Dick Peters

  26. Guy, thinking of you and your family during this time. I know from listening to your stories your son was a great man with a desire to help people. God knew it too for now Brent can do so from God’s side.

  27. Guy and Marilyn,

    There are no words that can express how sad the loss of a child. I remember Brent well and he always had a smile. Your family is in our thoughts and prayers.

    Marilee Greene

  28. Under His wings I am safely abiding;
    Tho’ the night deepens and tempests are wild,
    Still I can trust Him; I know He will keep me;
    He has redeemed me, and I am His child.

    Under His wings, under His wings,
    Who from His love can sever?
    Under His wings my soul shall abide,
    Safely abide forever. (W. O. Cushing)

    Guy & Marilyn, Chad and Tyler, just as you are lost for words to express your pain and sorrow so are we to find words to take away your pain and sorrow. Please know that Brent is fully restored, radiant, smiling and joyful in the grace of the Father, and you WILL be reunited for all eternity. Brent fulfilled his purpose here on earth in such a short time.

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