John E. Gabriel

John E. Gabriel, 76, of Port St. Lucie, FL, formerly of Frankfort, passed away Monday, April 28, 2014, at his home.

He was born April 20, 1938, in Lebanon, to James Robert and Emma Eleanor Hays Gabriel.  John graduated from Jefferson High School in Tipton County.  From 1957-1959, John served in the Army National Guard and in the Army Reserve from 1959-1963.  Before his retirement, John worked at Eli Lilly as a process control specialist.  John was a past member of Siloam Masonic Lodge #609 in Reese Mills, Ind.  He enjoyed NASCAR, the outdoors, and photography.  John held his pilot license and enjoyed flying.  He never knew a stranger; John had an infectious smile that drew people close anywhere he went.  He was always quick to tell about his grandchildren and share photos.

Surviving are his son, John E. (Theresa) Gabriel II of Frankfort; two daughters, Brenda (Rick) Grice of Winchester, VA, and Jody of Kokomo; one sister, Janet Gabriel of Kokomo; five grandchildren, and nine great grandchildren.

In addition to his parents, John is preceded in death by his brother, James Gabriel.

A gathering of family and friends will be held on Saturday, May 10, 2014, at Genda Funeral Home in Frankfort from 11:00 a.m. to the start of the memorial service at 1:00 p.m. with Celebrant Chad Douglass officiating.  Memorials in John’s name may be made to Clinton County Cancer or Clinton County War Memorial.  Online condolences may be directed to www.gendafuneralhome.com.