"Daryl and I are so sorry for your loss. We remember so fondly all of the good times spent with the two of you and the Jefferson School faculty crew. You are in our prayers."
Larry James Gabel, age 81, of Quincy, died Saturday, September 17, 2016, at 6:00 am in his home.
Larry was born April 26, 1935 in Quincy, Illinois, the son of W.H. and Anna Mason Gabel. He married Bonnie Higley on June 12, 1955 in Clayton, IL. She survives.
Larry was a star basketball player during his senior year of high school, when he received an honorable mention by the Chicago Tribune for his excellent performance on the court. He was also a star pitcher in fast pitch softball.
Larry served in the United States Army for six years in both active duty and in the reserves. He was honorably discharged with the rank of Sergeant. He spent 10 years working in the banking industry. He also worked for 14 years with the Board of Education, serving in various roles such as book keeper and benefits consultant. In 1979 he began his 18 year career as an office manager with Peters Heating and Air Conditioning. After his retirement in 1997, he worked part time as a Lifeline installer for Blessing Hospital. During this time he was also a driver for several car dealers.
Larry had been a member of Central Baptist Church for 28 years. He had served as a moderator, a member of the board of directors, and church treasurer. He was a current member of Bethel Assembly of God, where he served as an usher and a Sunday school teacher.
In his spare time, Larry enjoyed travel and Bible study. He also liked helping family and friends with chores.
In addition to his wife, survivors included: two sons, Brad Gabel of Revere, MO; and Rob (Melodie) Gabel of Warsaw, IL; five grandchildren: Bradley Ian Gabel of Revere, MO; Kim (Chance) Gooding of Quincy; Debra (Alex) Ohnemus of Quincy; Patric (Hali) Gabel of Lima, IL; and Jonathan Gabel of Quincy; 12 great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.
Larry was preceded in death by parents and three sisters: Wilma Tretter, Kathleen Hopke, and Anita Gabel
Services: 11:00 am Wednesday, September 21, 2016 at Bethel Assembly of God, with Rev. Keith Garner officiating.
Burial: Quincy Memorial Park, Quincy, Illinois
Visitation: 10:00 am - 11:00 am, Wednesday September 21, 2016 at Bethel Assembly of God
Memorials: Bethel Assembly of God Building Fund
www.hansenspear.com
Hansen-Spear Funeral Directors are in charge of the arrangements.
"Daryl and I are so sorry for your loss. We remember so fondly all of the good times spent with the two of you and the Jefferson School faculty crew. You are in our prayers."
"Larry will be missed by friends and family, also the congregation at Bethel Church. He was so kind and caring to my Mother, Eva Maye Murphy, when she was alive, He had a most humble and loving spirit toward everyone. Larry, rest in eternal love and peace with the Lord. Connie and Richard Hadfield"
"Bonnie and family, sorry to hear of Larry's passing. I worked with him in the late '70s at the Board Office of the Quincy School District. He was always very pleasant and fun to be around. When my Dad died suddenly, Larry led a prayer with me for my Dad in his office. He was a real man of faith and someone I truly admired. God Bless.."
"Dear Bonnie and family, We are saddened to learn that Larry passed away. He was a genuine "good" guy who we were glad he was a friend. Fern, especially, fondly remembers the good times of having break time with him and others at the Board of Education office. He made a positive difference for many. We send sincere condolences, God's Blessings and Best wishes."
"So sorry for your loss. I worked with Larry at Peters Heating & Conditioning for about 5 years. He was always a joy to work with. Our deepest sympathy."
"My heart is sad for your family. I hope your memories help you thru the days to come."
"Bonnie and family I am so sorry for your loss. Larry was a good man and a good neighbor. Take care ."
"Bonnie you have my deepest sympathy for your loss. You and your entire family are in my prayers. Love you Rose Houghton Harmon."
"Your All in my thoughts and Prayers, He will always be remember as a man of great Faith and always showed his appreciation for life, Family and Friends. I will always remember also the times we played together on the Central Baptist Soft Ball team, most of our wins were because of his pitching ability. Cling fast to all the wonderful memories. and according to God's; word we shall meet again one of many of God's promises. SHALOM! (John 14:27)"
"So sorry for your loss. Praying for comfort and strength for your family. May you feel God's presence and love."
"I'm so very sorry for your loss. You are in our prayers."