Elaine (Shepler) Wilkinson Abner

Elaine Abner, 96, lifelong resident of Logansport, Indiana, died on Saturday, November 4th, 2023. She was born on May 2, 1927, in Logansport to Joseph and Mildred Shepler. She was a 1945 graduate of Logansport High School and her senior yearbook described her as lovely to look at. 

In 1947, she married Charles H. Wilkinson, Jr., and in 1949, they had their only child, Sarah Jane Wilkinson. After divorcing, Elaine worked at Bailey’s clothing store as a buyer, where she utilized her exquisite sense of style and impeccable taste for which she will always be remembered. 

In 1985, she married Dr. Gardner “Doc” Abner. They lived at their Pompano Beach condo and their beloved farm, Fitch’s Glen, where they shared a love of gardening, collecting antiques, and their cats. 

In her memory, enjoy a glass of White Zinfandel or chocolate custard from the Sycamore Drive-In. 

Elaine was preceded in death by her parents; Joseph and Mildred Shepler; her husband, Dr. Gardner Abner; her grandson, Evan Stajduhar; and her brother, Joseph W. Shepler. 

She is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Sarah and Michael Stajduhar of Logansport, Indiana; her grandchildren, Ellie (Tim) Pyles of Scranton, Pennsylvania, Mickey Stajduhar and Annie Stajduhar, both of Logansport, Indiana; and her great-grandchildren, Kesling and Libby Pyles. 

A funeral service will be held at Trinity Episcopal Church on Wednesday, November 8th, at 11:00 a.m.

Visitation will be from 9:00 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. in the Parish House at Trinity Episcopal Church. (Use the west parking lot door for easier access to the church parish hall.)

Burial alongside her husband will occur at a later date in Austin, Indiana.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Cass County Historical Society or Trinity Episcopal Church.

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