David Frank Zabel, 89, of Osburn, Idaho, passed away November 30, 2011 at the Mountain Valley Care & Rehabilitation of Kellogg, Idaho. He was born on October 12, 1922 at the family farm in Dickinson, North Dakota; David was the son of Arthur David and Alvina (Knabe) Zabel.
David attended and graduated from the Dickinson High School of Dickinson, North Dakota in May of 1941. He married Eloise M. Vercellino on May 20, 1944 at Dickinson.
David was first employed as an operator at Western Union in Dickinson for several years. And in January of 1946, David and Eloise moved to Wallace, Idaho, at which time David was employed by the White & Bender Company, in charge of their insurance department until August of 1951. He was then employed as office manager for Bitco, Inc., until May of 1961; when he then became an agent for Phoenix Life Insurance Company until he retired in October of 1987. David obtained his C.L.U. degree from the American College of Life Underwriters in 1969.
David was a member of the Kiwianas, the Wallace Elks Lodge #331, a member of the Wallace Rotary Club, a member of the Congregational Church of Wallace, a member of the Masonic Lodge and the Shriners Club. David had also served as chairman of the Wallace School District Trustees for a number of years, as well as, chairman of the Commissioners of Fire District #1 for an extended period of time.
David was an avid hunter and fisherman for his entire life. His hobbies included fly tying, wood carving, photography, gardening and wine making.
David is survived by two daughters Karen Wiebers of Osburn, Idaho and Jane Shell of Oregon; two granddaughters, one grandson and one great-grandson; one sister Fern Shepard of Payette, Idaho; he is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews. David was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Eloise in April of 2003, one brother and two sisters.
Cremation was held and a Wine Party in celebration of David’s life will be held on Saturday, December 10, 2011, at 2:00 P.M. at the Wallace Elks of Wallace, Idaho; everyone is welcome.
The family suggests that memorials may be made to the Wallace Rotary, the Wallace Elks or to the Shriners Club.
SHOSHONE FUNERAL SERVICES & CREMATORY KELLOGG, IDAHO is entrusted with funeral arrangements.
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I would echo the post from Grant Tester. Dave was just a tremendous gentlemen, loved by all. Karen and Jane my condolences for your loss. May he rest in peace. -- Pat Wheeler
I was in Wallace High School back in the early 1960's when I first met Dave. Dave was involved in almost every local club and community organization and event that took place. If there was something that needed help or support , you can bet that Dave was involved. Dave was one of the communitys leading citizens and will be greatly missed. He also was my friend and good neighbor up on Eagle Creek. It hurts the local community when we lose people like Dave Zabel. -- Grant Tester
Hi Karen and Jane, I was so sorry to hear about your Dad's passing. I didn't know him as an adult, but as a young girl, I remember what a kind man he was and how nice he was to all of us girls. Treasure your memories of him. Love, -- Susie (Lomas) Lund
