Richard Gabel Obituary

Richard Melvin "Dick" Gabel

Richard Melvin "Dick" Gabel, , 85, of Tiffin, went home to be with the Lord, Sunday, Sept. 22, 2024, surrounded by his wife and children.

Dick was born in Fremont on July 15, 1939, to the late Melvin Gabel and Grace (Willy) Gabel. Dick was the oldest of six children. He is preceded in death by his parents; a sister, Janet (Harry) Crosby: and two brothers, James (Eileen) Gabel and Michael Gabel. A sister, Karen (Harold) Smith and brother, Thomas (Sally) Gabel survive.

In the mid 1940's, Dick's parents moved the family to the Tiffin area. Dick grew up on the family farm, raising pigs. In 1957, Dick graduated from Old Fort High School, where he played baseball and ran track. Growing up, 4-H was a big part of his life, often winning the blue ribbon at the Seneca County fair. Dick worked at Tiffin Dairy, Goodyear and retired from Marywood in 2004.

Dick met Mary Ann Jackson of Deshler while she was in nursing school on a blind date. They married Sept. 8, 1962. They celebrated their 62nd anniversary this year.

Dick was a dedicated member of St. Mary Catholic Church.

Through most of his life, Dick was an avid bowler. His dad introduced him to league bowling at the age of 16. Although he was often close, he achieved a perfect 300 game Jan. 26, 2006. He bowled in the nationals for 25 years. Dick also had a passion for auto racing, gardening, Guardian's baseball and OSU football.

In retirement, Dick and Mary Ann enjoyed traveling, gambling trips and playing cards with their many friends. One of his great loves was being part of a truck racing team in retirement. He was very proud of his children and enjoyed time with his wife, kids and their families. Grandpa was a joy to his nine grandchildren.

Dick is survived by his beloved wife, Mary Ann. Dick and Mary Ann have five surviving children, Richard Jr. of Austin, Texas, Randy (Beth) of Worthington, Theresa (Jerry) Walden of Westerville, Robert (Amy) of Delaware and Rodney (Heather) of Vestal, New York; nine grandchildren, Ashley (Dilan), Ryan, Tyler, Jason, Daniel, Paul, Anne-Marie, Audrey and Hannah; brothers-in-law Dennis (Janet) Jackson and Michael (Marty) Jackson, a sister-in-law, Barb; and many nieces and nephews.

A Funeral Mass will be 10 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 28, 2024, at St. Mary Catholic Church with the Rev. Matthew Rader officiating. Burial will follow at St Mary's Catholic Cemetery.

Visitation will be 4-7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 27, 2024, at Hoffman-Gottfried-Mack Funeral Home & Crematory.

Memorials can be made to St. Mary Catholic Church and Bridge Hospice of Findlay.

Condolences may be sent and the guestbook signed at www.hgmackfuneralhome.com.