Harry "Jim" James Gabel Jr's Obituary
Harry “Jim” James Gabel Jr. was born on March 1, 1957, in Greenville, MI, to Harry and Mardell Gabel. He and his older brother, Mike, grew up in Whitehall, MI across the road from a blueberry farm. Jim relished sharing his childhood memories of causing trouble with his crew of friends and enjoying the companionship of his beloved horses and German shepherds.
He attended Whitehall High School, where he showcased his array of talents, playing basketball, football, and tennis, and also graced the stage, starring as Freddy in "My Fair Lady.”
Following his graduation, Jim attended Michigan State University ('80), where he met the love of his life, Elizabeth “Beth” Bramlage, during his freshman year. Their bond was instant, cemented by the providence of living on brother/sister floors in Holden Hall with identical room numbers. Jim and Beth exchanged vows on June 23, 1978 at the Martha-Mary Chapel in Greenfield Village, Dearborn, MI, marking the beginning of their lifelong partnership.
Together, Jim and Beth welcomed three children into their lives: Jessica Mary, Joseph James, and Hallene Elizabeth. They settled in Farmington, MI, where they committed themselves to their family and building a home filled with warmth and love.
Jim's faith was a cornerstone of his life, and he was an active member of Faith Covenant Church. He shared his rich tenor voice and passion for music by participating in the choir, performing in the annual St. Lucia celebrations, and singing “O Holy Night” during Christmas Eve services. He was also known for his rendition of “Ave Maria,” sung at many weddings and funerals.
To know Jim Gabel was to understand his unwavering love for two things: his family and the state of Michigan. His adoration for his wife, children, and grandchildren was unparalleled, and it was only his love for them that could ever persuade him to leave the Great Lake State and relocate south to Virginia.
Jim was an avid sports fan, cheering on (and perhaps grumbling about) the Michigan State Spartans and all Detroit teams. While he didn’t get to see a Lions Super Bowl, he reveled in their recent success. Jim filled his home with music, passing along his love of Elvis Presley, Motown, and classic rock to his kids and grandkids.
Jim Gabel's warm presence, infectious laughter, and boundless love will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. He leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion, survived by Beth, Jessica, Dominic (son-in-law), Joseph, Leona (daughter-in-law), Hallene, and his most precious grandchildren: James, Mary, Lucia, and Margaret Bodoh and Lily and Karina Gabel.
A celebration of Jim's life will be held at 10:00 a.m. on June 15, 2024 at Bethel Presbyterian Church in Leesburg, VA. If desired, donations can be made to Central Detroit Christian (CDC) in his memory (where Jim and Beth volunteered as tutors for many years). https://www.centraldetroitchristian.org/donate/
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