Our family was so pleased when our Aunt Virginia married such a wonderful man in Don. I wish for her to use memories to assist in this trying time. All our love to you and all missing Don.
Courtney Kerkman
March 30, 2020
Dearest Virginia,
It just breaks my heart that this is how we (I) have to part ways on this earth with one of my most respected friends, co-hearts and sometimes partners in crime (mischievousness) Mr. Don Gabel.
What a guy! We kind of butted heads when we first met but it only took a few short conversations and the fact that we had so many friends, interests and goals in common that he was soon one of the top Chiefs on the Totem Pole
And don't think he didn't know it! Then when he met you and I whispered the word "smitten" to him. . .he blushed liked a teenager as that was "Your Word!" Virginia...you put life back into Don.
He had a hop in his step, a grin from ear to ear, his heart was overflowing with love and kindness for everyone. You had made him whole! And the Lord was pleased at this-don't think for one second that your union was not blessed by God the Father. You both glowed of the Holy Spirit and anyone who truly believes was witness to that! So mourn not but rejoice that the Lord has taken Don to his special place in heaven and graced him with his very own set of wings that will allow him to fly like he's never flown before. He's standing straight and tall; no more trembling and no more medicine. He and Ed and Von are having coffee this morning, going out for fried chicken tonight and then heading to the Casino. No virus limitations there! Be looking for a sign from them!
All our love Virginia. Keep those memories close and Don's love closer! I guarantee you'll feel him nearby. I'm with you girl.
Always in your corner!
Katie & Larry Engen
Larry and Katie Engen
March 30, 2020
Dear Virginia,
Bob and I were so sad to read about Don’s death. It was always a joy to visit with the two of you. Our last get together was with Marvin and Mary Melsha, You too didn’t tell them we were dropping by so they were quite surprised. We enjoyed our lunches at the Little Bo and visits in Arizona. Don was someone you felt you knew well very quickly. May all of the wonderful memories with Don provide comfort to you and the family. Hugs
Judie Tosh
March 29, 2020
Don became family when he married my Aunt Virginia. He was kind and wonderful and generous and a blessing to all of us who got to know him. I've always felt he was the kind of man we all should aspire to be. All my love Aunt Virginia.
David Keith
March 28, 2020
This time of life brings many unpleasant surprises. And now Don in today's Gazette. I became friends with Don when I began flying. We crossed paths at the Marion fly-in and the Monticello fly-in. He was always busy but nice to me. Jerry Haight, my airplane partner and I set Don's first wife's headstone in Linwood. cemetery. He was a fine gentleman.
Harvey Hop
March 28, 2020
This is strange as Don just called me a few days ago to ask me how I was doing. I had no idea he was sick and not feeling well. We had condos in the same facility and got to know each other. I didn’t know Don very long, but there is one thing for certain, he was intelligent and a gentleman.
Mike Rowray
March 28, 2020
Don and i were in the Jaycees together in the 60s and he was a kind, considerate friend and admirable leader..also carlolyn at nutrisystems and sharon at target brightened the ottumwa landscape..wonderful family..jnm
John moreland
March 28, 2020