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Jim Zabel Obituary
Scottsdale, AZ
Legendary Iowa broadcaster Jim Zabel, 91, died peacefully at his desk in his home in Scottsdale, AZ on May 23. Services will be held on June 21, at the Lutheran Church of Hope, West Des Moines with a visitation from 2 to 4 p.m., and a memorial service to follow at 4 p.m. Memorials may be directed to the University of Iowa Foundation, 1 W. Park Road, Iowa City, IA 52242, in support of the Jim Zabel Scholarship Fund or Hawkeye Fund, Iowa Athletics, or to a charity of your choice.
James Frederick Zabel was born to Fred and Verna Zabel on September 3, 1921 in Davenport, IA. He attended Davenport High School and is a graduate of the University of Iowa.
Jim was married to Mary Janice Boehm from 1946 until her death in 1985. He married Jill Williams in 1997, and they enjoyed traveling and life in AZ, while Jim continued to work from their Scottsdale home. In addition to Mary Jan, a daughter, Diane Zabel Webster, preceded Jim in death.
He is survived by his wife, Jill; daughter, Jane (Jeff) Paul, LeClaire, IA; step-children, Jenni (Ken) Greaux, Laguna Beach, CA and Jeff Williams, Portland, OR; grandchildren, Annie (Brian) Gibson, Apple Valley, MN, A.J. Paul, Bettendorf, IA and Charlie Paul, Iowa City, IA; great-grandchildren, Christopher and Abby Gibson; step-grandson, Harlan Greaux; sister, Joan Humm, Scottsdale, AZ; several nieces and nephews and thousands of sports fans in Iowa and across the country.
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Memories and Condolences
for Jim Zabel
January 27, 2014
Loved working with you back in the 70'S Jim. Rest in Peace.
Paul Coye
June 23, 2013
"The bearded one" is pretty much what he said to me as he introduced the line up of us at the yearly bowling proprietor show in I believe 1976.
Was an honor to be there with Jim.
RIP
June 20, 2013
JIM ZABEL WAS MY IDOL FOR HAWKEYE SPORTS TAUGHT ME TOO BE AN HAWKEYE FOR LIFE TOO HUG KISS OUR TVS RADIOS WE WILL MISS YOU Z TAKE CARE I LOVE IT PRAYERS GOES OUT TOO THE FAMILY MANY HAWK FANS. GO HAWKS WIN FOR Z OK.
June 19, 2013
Dear Jane and Family,
I was sorry to hear of the passing of your Dad. Growing up across the street from you and your family in Beaverdale was a treat. I will always remember your Dad's wonderful smile and dynamic personality. I also remember his beautiful whistling. He will always have a special place in my heart.
You are in my thoughts and prayers.
"Those who live in the Lord never see each other for the last time." - Goethe
Sincerely,
Judy Seaver-Chamat
Marti Johansen
June 9, 2013
I remember as a little girl watching sports events narrated by Jim and enjoying his sense of humor! He was a special man.
Drew Murphy
June 9, 2013
My prayers go to the family of Jim Zabel - thanks Z for the memories and inspiration!
Mary Walters
June 9, 2013
I remember Jim Zabel for his Let's Go Bowling Show as I was on it 7 times, 6 as a junior bowler and once as an adult. He made every one feel welcome.
Larry and Georgia Speed
June 9, 2013
Will miss you Mr. Z. Thanks for the memories and your unselfish devotion for the U of I.
Mackie
June 9, 2013
Z - you were a joy to know and it was wonderful working with you on the road with the 'Stormers. As I've always said, you had the second best house on earth. A "Bar" in the living room. It doesn't get much better than that. Jill, please except my sympathies.
Dave Hall
June 9, 2013
My favorite memories of Jim Zabel are when he hosted the weekly "Let's Go Bowling with Jim Zabel" on Sunday mornings. My Dad was a bowler on that show many times. But it was the introduction to the show, in Jim Zabel's voice, that always got me. Rest in Peace, Mr. Zabel!
Jim you'll always be with us
Ron Hensel
June 9, 2013
thank you "Z"
Dick Jacobson
June 9, 2013
Jim, you were the best!
Kay Bechtel
June 9, 2013
Peace Be With You! Love Always
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