Gary L. Zabel, 87 of Fort Atkinson, passed away on Monday, September 15, 2025, at Fort Atkinson Hospital.

Gary was born on October 30, 1937, in Watertown, WI, the son of Gerhard and Myrtle (Au) Zabel.  He attended Lake Mills High School and worked at General Motors in Janesville for 30 years and 1 month, retiring in 1990.   Gary was with his wife, Nola Miller, for 40 years and married in Las Vegas, NV.   Gary loved classic cars.  He loved owning them, restoring and maintaining them - attending car shows all over the country.  He traveled often, usually in one of his cars, seeing country from behind the wheel of one of his classics. Gary had a deep appreciation for music and was especially drawn to beautiful organ and piano music.  Animals, especially cats, had a special place in Gary’s heart.  His family is thankful that Gary was able to enjoy 35 years of retirement, and he lived his life to the fullest.

He is survived by: his wife Nola Miller of Fort Atkinson; sons Dale (Sondra) Zabel of Warren, IN and Steven (Renee) Zabel of Columbia City, IN; granddaughters Taylor Zabel and Jennifer (Aaron) Burkhalter; 10 great-grandchildren; 3 great, great-grandchildren; and siblings Patricia Zabel of Jefferson and Carole (Ken) Amacher of Trempealeau, WI.  Gary is also survived by other family members and friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents and niece Lori Singer.

Memorials in Gary’s honor to the Jefferson County Humane Society, would be greatly appreciated.

Gary will be laid to rest during a private family graveside service at Union Cemetery in Jefferson.