Laverne Gabel

Laverne Gabel, Sr., 70, of Keokuk, IA, died Saturday, November 11, 2017 at Blessing Hospital in Quincy, IL. He was born April 21, 1947 in Keokuk the son of Marshall and Helen Ruffertshoefer Gabel. Laverne graduated from Keokuk High School with the Class of 1965. He attended Southeastern Community College in Keokuk and Northeast Missouri State in Kirksville, MO. He was first united in marriage to Mary Dunn on July 21, 1968 and they later divorced. Laverne married Sandy Bennett on December 23, 1971 at the courthouse in Carthage, IL. On December 23, 1977, Laverne and Sandy renewed their vows at New Testament Christian Church in Keokuk. He had been employed at Foote Mineral, Montgomery Ward, Happy Homes and Midwest Academy all in Keokuk. He also sold Amway for several years. Laverne loved spending time outdoors, hunting, fishing and gardening. He was a movie buff and especially enjoyed watching westerns. He was a talented leather worker and made many beautiful leather items including jackets. Laverne was a good listener and always listened without judging. He was devoted to caretaking of others. Laverne's last words to his family were, "When you come into this world, you are crying and everyone rejoices. And when you leave this world, you rejoice and everyone cries for you." He is survived by one daughter, Tracy Rantala Dobbins of Keokuk, one son, Marshall Laverne Gabel, Jr. of Keokuk, two stepdaughters, Lori Davis and Amanda Humes both of Keokuk, three step-grandchildren, Brett, Darren and Samantha Steele, one brother, Gerry Gabel of San Diego, CA, one niece, Nicolle Gabel of San Diego, one uncle, Dale Gabel of Keokuk and twenty-nine cousins, including Steve and Kathy Gabel of Keokuk. He was preceded in death by his parents, eight aunts, seven uncles and two cousins. A memorial service was held at 1 p.m., Thursday, November 16th, 2017 at the New Testament Christian Church in Keokuk with Brother Bill Abegglen officiating. Memorials may be made to the New Testament Christian Church or the American Diabetes Association.