Donald L. Gabel, (Wisconsin Don), age 60, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Thursday May 3, 2018, and is dancing with the angels tonight. He was born on June 6, 1957 in Prairie du Chien, the son of Leroy and Joyce (Rice) Gabel. Don grew up in the Fennimore area graduating from Fennimore High School in 1975.
He worked for CUNA Mutual, at their Madison location for many years. Returning to his roots, Don retired in 2011 and moved back to Prairie du Chien. He was the original Pi-rat (cross between Key West Pirate and Mississippi River Rat). Don enjoyed fishing and is personally responsible for depleting the blue gill population around Frenchman’s Landing. Don loved music and was a gifted dancer displaying his skills at The Hodie and the many summer festivals. He also liked kayaking and traveling to destinations like Hawaii, St. Lucia, and Key West and Treasure Coast. Don was most proud of his wonderful friendships throughout and his devotion to his Lord.
Don is survived by his mother Joyce Rice of Wauzeka, three siblings, Daniel (Randa) Gabel of New Glarus, Tim (Kari) Gabel of Woodinville, WA, Pattie Federman of Phoenix, AZ, many beloved nieces and nephew, and many dear friends in the Madison and Prairie du Chien area.
Don was preceded in death by his father Leroy Gabel, sister Michelle Gabel, and a half brother Troy Halverson.
Funeral services will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Friday May 11, 2018, at the Larson Family Funeral Home in Fennimore with burial to follow in the Hillside Cemetery in Lancaster. Visitation will be held from 5-8:00 P.M. on Thursday evening May 10, 2018, at the Larson Family Funeral Home in Fennimore and from 10:00 A.M. until the time of service on Friday morning.