Tony (Anthony) Gabel

Much loved son of Gail and John, very proud father of Richard and Stephanie, fond and very close “brother” of  James Wu (Taiwan) with whom he shared many school years,  “little brother” to Nicole Seminiuk (New Zealand) and a friend to so many. Tony passed away in his sleep on November 27^th, 2017 in Vancouver where he had been working temporarily for his Victoria employer.  Never expecting to write one’s son’s obituary, finding the right words is not easy and those who knew Tony well, will remember him as kind, very generous, always available to help and the first to volunteer, especially at a time in his life when he faced many challenges, both personal and health-related. He covered the stress in his later life behind his very friendly and outgoing personality. But ultimately his body rebelled and Late-onset Type 1 Diabetes took control of his daily life, requiring multiple injections of insulin.  He had to quickly overcome his dislike of needles!

Tony graduated from GlenLyon Norfolk School (GNS) where his teachers and Mr. Brooks will not remember him for his interest in academics as he was having far more fun with extra-curricular activities. Tony’s life-long passion for all things military and police-related began in his teen years. He joined the Canadian Scottish Regiment Militia; never a keen dancer, Tony preferred to work on security at GNS school dances and later at University when he attended UNBC.  After college, Tony moved to Smithers where he and his wife operated a small Inn and Tony was delighted to be voted” Businessman of the Year”.  However, the RCMP “called” and Tony volunteered as an Auxiliary Constable in Smithers.  He was later selected for professional police training at the RCMP College in Regina.  Tony was close to graduation when personal and family issues intervened and he returned to Victoria.  He later began a new career in the construction industry, with old friend Rod Parker, while successfully completing his academic requirements along the way.

Tony loved his years at GNS and one of his teachers wrote that Tony dropped in at school recently.  “He was his usual full of life Tony. I marvelled at his enthusiasm and passion for living. Even though Tony was not conventional, he was a bright shining light loved by so many that he touched with his positive actions,” He gave so much Good”.   It could not have been better said.

Tony is survived by his children, Richard and Stephanie, their mother, Yvonne, his parents Gail and John, in-law Blum family, extended family and many friends in Canada, Australia, Taiwan, N.Z., USA, Austria, Japan and the UK.

The family wishes to welcome any of Tony’s friends who would like to join them in saying goodbye to Tony and afterwards a Reception on Friday, December 15, 2017, at 2.30 pm  in the Sequoia Centre at McCall Gardens, 4665 Falaise Drive, Victoria, BC and ask that you contact Gail and John at ggabel@shaw.ca  if you are able to attend.

Flowers gratefully declined. A donation to GlenLyon Norfolk School in Tony’s name would be greatly appreciated.

Condolences may be offered to the family below.

McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com

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