Hays, Kansas

Julius E. "Gene" Gabel, age 76, passed away at Hays Medical Center, Hays, Kansas on December 25, 2013.

He was born June 24, 1937 in Ness City, Kansas, the son of Pete and Martina Meis Gabel.

He was an automobile mechanic most of his life. He was a member of Pheasants Forever and Sacred Heart Church, Ness City.

On October 7, 1961 he married Patricia Burdett in Ness City.

He is survived by his wife, Patricia, Ness City; sons, Joe (Susan) Gabel, La Crosse, Todd (Lisa) Gabel, Hays; daughters, Tammy (Eric) Seib, Ness City, Tara (Toby) Witthuhn, Garden City; brother Pete Gabel; Sisters, Nita Brackney, Marge Leiker, Patty Weigel, Bonnie Rebel; grandchildren, Chad Reinert, Tyson Reinert, Caitlin Gabel, Jessica Gabel, Jared Gabel, Taylor Gabel, Tyler Witthuhn; great-grandchildren, Bryce and Jase Reinert.

He was preceded in death by his parents; son, Kerby Thomas; brothers, Leo, Hubert, Chuck, Stub, Rusty, Delbert, Cactus.

Viewing will be Friday, December 27, 2013, 9 A.M.-4 P.M. at Fitzgerald Funeral Home. Vigil service will be Friday, December 27, 7 P.M.

Mass of Christian Burial will be Saturday, December 28, 2013, 10:00 A.M. at Sacred Heart Church.

Burial in the Sacred Heart Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be given to Sacred Heart Cemetery, Ness City.