Charles Condon Zabel, Sr., 90, of Three Oaks, died, Tuesday, January 23, 2024.
His life began September 26, 1933 in LaPorte, Indiana, the seventh of eight children born to George and Bernice Zabel. He married Ruth Ann Warren, July 17, 1954 in Three Oaks, Michigan.
Chuck’s whole life was his wife Ruth Ann and his family. He enjoyed going to all sporting events that his children and grandchildren were in. He had successful businesses in Three Oaks for sixty-five years, from gas stations to auto repair. Chuck enjoyed his community and had many meaningful conversations at the round table over coffee and homemade cookies made by Ruth Ann. Chuck was known for his ever-present cigar.
Chuck will be greatly missed by family and friends. He is survived by his beloved wife of sixty-nine years, Ruth Ann Zabel of Three Oaks; one daughter, Sheri (Vern) Watkins of Three Oaks; three sons, Terry (Linda) Zabel of Grand Rapids, Chuck (Tammy) Zabel of Three Oaks, Denny (Valerie) Zabel of Three Oaks; ten grandchildren, Crystal, Kirsten, Tony, Keith, Kevin, Melissa, Jan, Quinn, Chelsea, and Nicole; fifteen great grandchildren, Ava, Rowan, Brody, Reese, Louisa, Carter, Gracie, Dylan, Jacob, Ingrid, Augie, Austin, Linden, Lucas, Gretta; one brother, Don (Mindy) Zabel of Florida and a host of nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, one sister, Dorothy (Mick) Rosenbaum; five brothers, George “Junior”, Tom, Jim, Bob, and Dick.
The family will hold a celebration of life at Watkins Park, 3 West Locust Street, Three Oaks, Michigan 49128 on Sunday, May 19, 2024 at 1:00 p.m.
The family prefers contributions in memory of Chuck be made to Three Oaks Baseball Association, Post Office Box 104 Three Oaks, Michigan 49128.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Wagner Family Funerals Pobocik Chapel, Three Oaks. Please share a memory or a message online: wagnercares.com.