James G. Sabel

James George Sabel, 87, passed away on December 15, 2025. He was born to the late Edwin and Valeria (Holzmann) Sabel on October 21, 1938. He attended Holy Cross in Mount Calvary and Goodrich High School in Fond du Lac, graduating in 1957.
Jim honorably served in the Army National Guard from 1955 to 1962. Jim was united in marriage to Joann M. Whitmore on June 25, 1960 at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Fond du Lac.
He was employed with Mercury Marine as a parts analyst for over 25 years, and moved onto sales for Steenberg Homes.
Jim was very active in his community, serving on many community advisory boards and civic organizations, too numerous to list. He served on Fond du Lac City Council from 2002-2008 and 2010-2013 serving as President during his last term.
Music was one of Jim's largest passions. His life as a musician started with the band The Dawn Dusters. He managed and played with the bands, Shades of Dawn and Heartland country band. They played locally for different community events and weddings, as well as all over the state. Jim served as Secretary/Treasurer for the Fond du Lac Musicians Union from 1976-1996 and President of the Wisconsin State Musicians Union from 1992-2000. Jim was proud of his part in the development of Walleye Weekend and Music Under the Stars.
Jim is survived by his wife of 65 years, Joann, daughters Dawn (Jim) Wilfahrt, Deborah Ristow, son Dennis (Denise) Sabel, grandchildren Casey Sabel, Kate (Shane) Wilfahrt-Cook, Nikki (Derek) Sabel-Glad, Gabe (Megan) Ristow, Corrie Sabel (Madi Cogdill), Calaf (Katie House) Wilfahrt and six great grandchildren. He is further survived by siblings Ronald Sabel, Cindy Bell and Carol Bostwick.
He was preceded in death by one grandchild Ryan Wilfahrt and brother Charles Sabel.
SERVICES: Jim's friends and family are welcome to Zacherl Funeral Home on Friday, December 26th from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. for a time of visitation followed by a funeral service at 11:00 a.m. Jim will be laid to rest in Calvary Mausoleum.
The family prefers no flowers and asks that you consider a donation to the charity of your choice in Jim's honor.
The family thanks the staff at Bethel Home/Serenity Garden of Oshkosh as well as Harbor Haven Health and Rehabilitation.
Online condolences can be shared at www.zacherlfuneralhome.com.