Bob Abshire was born and raised in Brown County, then moved to Marion where he attended Marion Community Schools, graduating from Marion High School in 1976. He joined the National Guard at the age of 19, serving for 14 years. In 1989, he began a part-time career driving a bus for the City of Marion. He was inspired to do so from his mother who was a school bus driver, and his uncle who drove for the City of Fort Wayne. Part-time became full-time in the early 90s.
Abshire said he enjoyed driving for special events including Mississinewa 1812, the Marion Easter Pageant, and Christmas City Walkway of Lights Parade, and he reflects that his best memories have been meeting all the wonderful senior citizens all over Marion.
Every time I’m out and about, I run into people who know me or had families that rode my bus,” explained Abshire, who mostly drove the route south to Indiana Wesleyan University all the way up to North Marion.
Abshire added that winter weather is always a challenge for bus drivers explaining snowy and icy conditions represent the worst part of the job.
He thanked the City of Marion Transportation Department for the past 30 years, expressing he has enjoyed it all and will miss that part of his life.
Transportation Director Jeff Edwards reciprocated appreciation for Abshire’s service. “Bob was a good employee for 30 years, and we are grateful for his tenure here. He will be missed.”
Abshire said he looks forward to enjoying time at the lake with his dog, traveling a bit more, and spending time with family. Abshire has a wife, two step-children, and five grandchildren.
Abshire’s last official day with the City of Marion is March 1st, 2019.
