Donald K. Gabel passed away on January 19, 2026 surrounded by the love of his family. He was a devoted husband, proud father and grandfather, and a man known for his generosity, service, and steady presence.
Donald was preceded in death by his parents, Ralph and Edie Gabel. He was the beloved husband of Bridget Gabel. Together, they built a family grounded in love and commitment. He was a proud father to Doug Gabel (Nicole), Steven Gabel (Kell), Kevin Gabel (Meghan), and Scott Gabel (Molly), and a cherished grandfather to Sydney, Alec, Maddie, Devin, Drew, Spencer, Nolan, Ryan, Jordyn and Harlee, each of whom brought him immense joy and pride.
Donald was a longtime and active Mason, serving in the Shriners Organization for many years. His dedication to service was especially evident through his volunteer work at Shriners Hospitals, where he gave his time and heart to help children and families in need. His commitment to helping others was not just an obligation to him—it was a calling.
Those who knew Donald will remember him as a man of integrity, kindness, and quiet strength. He valued family above all else and lived his life guided by loyalty, service, and compassion. His legacy lives on through the family he loved so deeply and the many lives he touched through his volunteer work.
Donald will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.
Visitation at Kutis Affton Chapel 10151 Gravois Rd. 63123 on Wednesday, January 21 from 4-8 pm. with Funeral Mass at St. Martin of Tours Catholic Church 610 W. Ripa Ave. 63125 on Thursday, January 22 at 10:00 am. Interment at Sunset Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations to Shriners Children’s Hospital are appreciated.
Great man, he always brought joy and laughter to any event we were participating in. I will miss his laugh and smile. Condolences to all of his family.
I am sorry for your loss. Don was a great friend to our family and many others at St Martins. My prayers are with you at this time
Rest in Peace Noble Brother. You will be missed.
We are so sorry for your loss. Don was a great friend. Always helping if we needed anything. He was like a second dad to our boys. We loved Don & we will miss him.
Very nice gentleman
Dear Scott & Family,
I am deeply sorry for your loss. I know how important your dad was to you and to your entire family. While nothing can replace him as a father, husband, and grandfather, I hope the memories you shared and the example he set through a life of integrity, service, and compassion, bring you comfort and guidance in the days ahead. Please know that my thoughts are with you and your family during this very difficult time.
With deepest sympathy,
I’m so sorry for your loss. Mr.Gabel was a great guy. My prayers go out to Bridget and all the boys.
He was my twin brother. I knew and loved him longer than anyone.
My sympathies to Bridget, Doug, Steve, Kevin and Scott and their respective families. I’m so sorry to hear about Don’s passing and my prayers go out to all of you for comfort and healing.
Don was such a kind man. He always greeted me with a smile and some sort of joke. He was always a joy to be around. He will be deeply missed. My condolences to the Gabel family.
What a great amazing person. A great Shriner and member of the Motor Patrol. He was always active in the Motor Patrol even when our membership hit rock bottom. He got to see make its come back. The hours he dedicated to the Hospital Ride and circus. i loved seeimg him at the front desk at the Hospital when i came to board meetings. Or when he was behind the bar in the Pote suite. For my brother and I when it came to the Shrine he was like our big older brother. Always looking out for us keeping us out of trouble, sometimes, when we were younger. I will miss his smile, laugh, and presence. The Motor Patrol will not be the same without him
Huge hugs to you all!!!
My prayers are with you.
A kind neighbor who always had a smile for everyone. His presence will be missed. Our prayers and sympathies to to the entire family.
Bridget, I just heard about Don. I am so sorry. Don and I used to aggravate one another just for fun. You and your family will be in my prayers.
So sorry for your loss, Bridget. Prayers for you and your family.