Obituary
Rachel Ann Abendschein, 15, of Tavares, passed away suddenly on July 31, 2019. She was born on October 31, 2003 to Michael D. and Amber Jo Abendschein (nee Van Besien).
Rachel was active in Scouting BSA. She achieved the Rank of Scout, was appointed Senior Patrol Leader, and was a founding member of Troop 4250 in Eustis, FL. She was also a volunteer at Cub Scout Day Camp for two years. She was a member of the Tavares Middle School Color Guard, the Tavares Middle School Patriot Band and Impact of Orlando Drum Corps. She was entering her Freshman year at Tavares High School where she was a member of the Tavares Big Red Band.
She is survived by her parents Michael D. and Amber Jo Abendschein; brothers Aaron M., Patrick D., Nicholas A.; sister Odessa H.; grandparents Darrell L. and Eileen V. Abendschein (nee O’Reilly), and Cyndee Tolbert (nee Shoemaker); Aunt Patricia (David) Bartels; Uncle Brent Van Besien; cousins David, Ryan, Andrew, Raylan, and Brody.
Rachel was preceded in death by her grandfather Steven Van Besien.
A Visitation will be held on Tuesday, August 6, 2019 from 4-6 p.m. at Lake County Shrine Club 424 N Duncan Dr, Tavares, FL 32778 with a Celebration of Rachel’s life at 6p.m.
In remembrance of Rachel we welcome you to wear her favorite colors of purple and black.
In lieu of flowers, donations of art supplies, small stuffed toys, puzzles, or other small toys for patients and siblings of children in the Pediatrics ICU at Advent Health Orlando (South) are appreciated.
Performing with Impact. Our hearts are breaking that you were taken so soon. We find comfort knowing you’re with your grandfather. Watch over us, dear girl, especially your mom & dad, and your siblings. You will be missed beyond measure.
At day camp you never complained about your assignments. You took care of my granddaughter who still gets excited seeing your picture of “Rael”.
You were shy at your first meeting with Troop 4250 but you took to it like a duck to water, laughing at Greg’s terrible jokes.
You have impacted our lives so deeply. We aren’t sure if we can ever honor your memory enough because of the bright light you were to us.
It will always hurt. Fly like an Eagle. We love you Rachel Abendschein.
Turtle release at the beach. What a perfect day with you and your brothers and cousins. We love you always.