Richard J. Schabel

Richard (Dick) J. Schabel of Alger, Michigan passed away on Saturday, January 27, 2024 at the age of 75. Dick grew up in Munger, Michigan, the son of the late Bernard (Bernie) and Elaine Schabel. After graduating from St. James in 1966 he went on to serve his country in the U.S. Army with the First Air Calvary, and fought in the Vietnam war from 1967-1968. Upon his return, he began a 31-year career with GM where he was the Committeeman gaining the nick name Bull Dog, retiring in 2001. In June 1979 he met Nancy Ann Gerstenschlager through a blind date. The two were meant for each other and wed after three months on August 26, 1979. For over 44 years Dick and Nancy shared countless adventures with each other, family and friends. He was an outdoorsman and enjoyed golfing, hunting, fishing, boating, side by side riding, even water skiing and snowmobiling in his younger years. Let’s not forget all the enjoyment of a nice cold Miller while enjoying those activities. Dick especially enjoyed spending time with his grandkids whether that be at home on Secord Lake, deer camp or vacations and all time in between. Dick is a legend in the hearts of many.
Left to cherish the memories of him are his wife, Nancy Schabel; his children, Chris (Sara) Mausolf and Scott (Marci) Mausolf, and Brad (Andrea) Schabel; his grandchildren who lovingly referred to him as Papa: Juliette, Cameron, Derek and Brieana and Payton; brothers, Dave (Sharon) Schabel, Danny (Lois) Schabel; many nieces, nephews, neighbors and friends.
The Funeral Mass and Rite of Committal will take place Wednesday, January 31, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Jude Thaddeus Parish (614 Pine St. Essexville, Michigan 48732). Private Military Honors will take place at Great Lakes National Cemetery in Holly, Michigan. The family will be present at Gephart Funeral Home, Inc. on Tuesday, January 30, 2024 to receive family and friends from 2:00 to 8:00 p.m. and the Parish Vigil will take place at 6:00 p.m. at the funeral home. He will be taken to the church on Wednesday to lie in state from 10:00 a.m. until the time of mass. Those planning an expression of Sympathy may wish to consider donations to Wishes of the Family. You may share online condolences at www.gephartfuneralhome.com .