Roger Abernathy

Roger Abernathy, 74, of Granite Falls, Minnesota, passed away Monday, August 17, 2026 at home with his wife by his side after a battle with cancer. Funeral Service will be held Friday, August 21, 2026 at 2:00 PM at the Wing-Bain Funeral Home in Granite Falls. Burial will be in Doncaster Cemetery. Visitation will be held two hours prior to the service on Friday, beginning at 12:00 PM Noon.

Roger Dennis Abernathy was born June 13, 1952 to Hugh and Martha (Nordang) Abernathy in Granite Falls, Minnesota. He grew up in Granite Falls and graduated from high school there in 1970. Following graduation, Roger enlisted in the National Guard where he served for 20 plus years before retiring as a SFC-E7. He worked for the railroad for some time followed by Thorstad construction for 20 plus years. After retiring from construction, he enjoyed his job of driving school bus.

Roger first met the love of his life, Sarah Labatte, at the young ages of 18 and 15. Life took them separate ways before they reconnected on March 2, 2002 and the two were wed on April 17, 2007. Roger was a loving, kind and devoted husband.

You would often find Roger barefoot down by the river, either cleaning it up or fishing in it. He loved getting out and riding his Harley, spending time with his best friend, Johnny (Kay) Magnuson, and enjoying a cold Budweiser. Roger also liked doing crossword and crypto puzzles, a nice bonfire and feeding the birds while chasing off critters in the yard. He was a big jokester who loved to make those around him laugh. His quick wit and great sense of humor will be deeply missed.

Roger is survived by his wife, Sarah Labatte; daughters, Angella and Teresa Abernathy; stepchildren, Travis (Jessica) Leenerts and Derek Leenerts; grandchildren, Brett, Bo, Arella, Macie, Isaiah, Julian and Xavier; step-grandchildren, Gerrod Leenerts, Narria (fiancé, Nick Moritz), and Everra Leenerts; great-granddaughter, Iris; as well as other family and friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Hugh and Martha; brothers, Richard, Howard and Bruce Abernathy.