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BORN
1956
DIED
2024
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Herbert Gabel Obituary
Herbert Wayne "Herb" Gabel
Herbert Wayne "Herb" Gabel passed away peacefully on August 4, 2024, surrounded by his family. Herb was born on March 6, 1956, to Hank and Betty Gabel.
Herb grew up terrorizing the City of Billings, surrounded by friends and doing the things he loved most; dirt bike riding, snowmobiling, keg parties, and golfing just to name a few.
Herb was a part of the family business, Hank's Body Shop for 30 years. He loved the daily interactions with customers, and customers enjoyed his lovable, caring personality.
He loved playing in golf tournaments, going to Deadwood for shenanigans, and holding his annual NASCAR party. The 4th of July was his Christmas.
Besides the above, his grandchildren brought him great joy. Whether it was having them ride along with him on the lawn mower, buying them a gigantic unicorn float, or sharing M&M's, seeing the smile on their faces brought fullness to his heart.
You didn't even have to know who Herb was, to know that he was a kind, caring, fun, funny, and all around affable man. He would always go above and beyond to help a friend in need.
He was preceded in death by his father, Hank Gabel; numerous aunts and uncles; and his special cousin, Danny Gabel.
He is survived by his wife, Kim Gabel; four children: Kari (Trevor) Girardot, Kory (Jordynn) Johnson, Wesley (Brett) Richard and Hannah Gabel (Zach); his mother, Betty Gabel; sister, Donna Gabel; brother, Dale (Angie) Gabel; seven grandchildren: Kaiya, Ayla, Lily, Zoey, Max, Hazel and Matthew; numerous nieces and nephews who loved their Uncle "Herbie".
Funeral services will be held at Smith Funeral Chapel, 304 34th Street West, Billings, MT 59102 on Monday, August 12, 2024 at 2:00 PM. Celebration to follow at Herb and Kim's residence.
As Herb did in his daily life, pay it forward with kindness.
A very special thanks to the physicians, nurses, and staff at Intermountain Health (St. Vincent's Regional Hospital) who took exceptional care of Herb until the very end.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Herbert Gabel
Martha Grande
September 7, 2024
I learned of Herb´s passing just today...interestingly just recently recalled a memory of Herbs infamous Elvis impression "Ain´t nothin but a Hound Dog"...Must have been an Angel passing thru...many fun times were had in High school and beyond. Terrorizing Billings was accurate. A photo to share Herb top of the heap...Wishing your family comfort and strength.
Terry Byrd
September 7, 2024
I grew up with Herb. Played many baseball games together. At 1 game Herb hit the ball so far at south park, home run. No actual field, just a back stop. It was muddy and Herb was running the bases. He only got as far as 3rd base before they managed to get the ball in. The mud had built up on his shoes so much that he couldn't run! No home run for Herb. He was a great guy. Fixed my wife's red Toyota many times from people hitting her. He just kept the paint in stock. He will be missed.
Ruth Sprankel
August 15, 2024
Betty and Donna & family. I am so sorry to hear about Herbies passing. What a good man he was. Hugs to you. Ruth Sprankel
Audrey Kimmet
August 13, 2024
We are so sorry for your loss!
Thomas and Susan Kaiser
August 12, 2024
Good memories of Herb in the Sweet William neighborhood.
Jesse Jennings
August 12, 2024
My sincere condolences to the family, I enjoyed working for Herb and the Gabel family at the body shop.
Richard lee Remington
August 12, 2024
My condolences to the family at this time!
Lynn, PT
August 12, 2024
Your patriarch was very special man. It was an honor to meet him and he worked as hard at his recovery like no one I have ever met. We have a very special angel in Heaven, now! Thanks for sharing his "tenacity" with me
Liz Lamdin
August 11, 2024
I met Herb through family way back when. He was the nicest man, and made everyone he met feel like a friend. Such a kind, funny guy. Once he knew you, no matter how long it had been since he last saw you, he never forgot who you were. And of course, whenever my vehicle had a mishap, Herb and the crew at Hank's took care of it expertly and professionally. I am so heartbroken to hear of his untimely passing. A good man gone too soon. Please know I am sending love, hugs, and prayers for peace and comfort to all who knew and loved him. Rest in peace, love, and light, Herb.
Dilys Reese-Neibauer and Ken Neibauer
August 11, 2024
Ken and Dilys are so deeply sorry for your loss. He was truly a fun loving guy and was always smiling . God bless you all and sending hugs with prayers.
Andy Hilario
August 11, 2024
Fantastic friend and neighbor,who I will miss till the end,will miss our talks over the fence,Rest In Peace my friend.
Paige Clendenin
August 11, 2024
I´m so sorry for all of you, he was a great guy. I had the pleasure of knowing him through school and he was a fun one.
Rest in peace Herb.
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