Melvin Gabel Obituary
Melvin James Gabel, 84, of Salina, Kansas, passed away peacefully on July 18, 2025, surrounded by his family.
Melvin was born on May 22, 1941, in Hays, Kansas to Leo and Emma Gabel. He proudly served in the United States Navy, an experience that helped spark his lifelong love of travel and exploration. Whether it was a cross-country road trip or simply discovering a new backroad, Melvin was always up for an adventure—especially if there was a good map involved.
In 1964, he married Jeanette Dechant in Hays, Kansas. Together, they raised three children: Ursula, Cornel, and Jessica. Later in life, Melvin married Nancy Timmons in 2013. The couple made their home in Salina, where Melvin enjoyed retirement by planning travels, visiting family, and studying historical politics.
Melvin was a man of quiet curiosity, gentle humor, and kindness. He found joy in the simple things: the best fried egg sandwiches, perfectly folded laundry, and the company of family. His presence brought calm, and his stories left lasting impressions on those lucky enough to know him.
He is survived by his wife, Nancy; his children and their spouses: Ursula and Kevin Baird, Cornel and Donna Gabel, and Jessica and Ryan Cino; and his beloved grandchildren: Kiera and Max Gabel, and Gabe and Cooper Cino.
Mel’s adventurous spirit, big laugh, and love for life will be dearly missed.
A memorial service will be held at Brock’s-Keithley Funeral Chapel in Hays, KS, on Monday, July 28, 2025 at 10am.
Those wishing to honor Melvin’s memory are invited to make a donation either to Disabled American Veterans at https://www.dav.org/ or The Salvation Army at https://www.salvationarmyusa.org/, organizations that Melvin supported.
Memories and words of comfort may be shared with Melvin's family on his tribute page via: www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
2509 Vine St PO Box 86, Hays, KS 67601
People and places connected with Melvin
Recent Obituaries
Recent Obituaries
Memories and Condolences
for Melvin Gabel
Make a Donation
in Melvin Gabel's name
Please consider a donation as requested by the family.
How to support Melvin's loved ones
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor Melvin Gabel's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
