James Donovan Zabel, Sr
June 20, 1925 – January 10, 2023
Jim passed away peacefully Tuesday evening at Hanson Hospice in Stevensville.
Born In Cass Township Indiana, Jim leaves a legacy of service to his family, friends, the Village of Three Oaks and his country (USMC Pacific Theatre 1943-1946). Jim and his wife Doris moved to Three Oaks in 1957 from Galien and established Zabel Enterprises soon thereafter including a well-known Auto Salvage and Autobody business on Kruger Road. Jim knew hundreds of people by name and could recite who lived “here and there” while driving. People that knew Jim would always remark how generous he was, what a good role model he was to many young men, and how he donated his time, treasure and talent to many organizations and causes. An avid golfer, gardener and card player, Jim retired at age 72, with his son Steve taking over the business operation. Jim and Doris celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary in 2021 and have lived in the family home on Kruger Road for 65 years.
Jim leaves his loving wife Doris (Hoadley), brothers Richard (Dick), Charles (Chuck) and Don; sons Jim Jr (Tracy), Steve (Liz) and Mark along with daughter Janice (Freeman) and son in law Grant. Grandchildren include Danya, Adam, Sarah, James III and Austin. Jim was blessed with many Great Grandchildren.
A springtime Celebration of Life is planned at the Three Oaks Legion Post 204. Memorial donations may be made to Harbert Community Church – WWW.HarbertCommunityChurch.org (269)426-4321The American Legion Post 204 – 200 W Linden St Three Oaks, MI 49128 (269)756-2341. Those wishing to leave an online donation may do so at www.purelycremations.org.
Offer Condolence for the family of James Donavon Zabel Sr.
Print Obituary & Condolences
Karen Rieger
We will miss you, Papa Jim! With love, Mark & Karen Rieger
Chuck Allers
“An unexamined life is a life not worth living” – Socrates
Well done, good and faithful servant.
Johnny Jackson
Johnny Jackson and Jim were close in friendship, business and golf&bowling too.
Many treasured memories. God bless Doris and all the family as they grieve this separation.
Carl Tedesco
Janice/Grant and all of Jim’s family and friends,
I am thinking of you as you celebrate Jim’s life. May Jim live in your hearts and memories forever.
Dianne Kirk
To the family I’m so sorry for your loss. He will truly be missed. RIP JIM.
Alick Lau
Janice and Grant,
Please accept our deepest condolences for your loss and you all are in our thoughts and prayers.
Your friends always.
The Lau family
anna reindel
Dear Janice, please know you and your family are in our hearts and prayers for the loss of your father. It was heart warming to read what a wonderful and full life he lived, I’ll always remember his kind smile. Love you!! Eric and Anna
Dana Kingsley-Saffery
What a life.
So sorry for your loss Aunt Doris 🙏🏻