Gabriel Campbell

Gabe grew up on the family farm in Howell, MI and graduated from Howell High School in 1951.  Shortly thereafter, he served in the United States Navy on the Pacific towards the end of the Korean War.  Upon returning home, he worked on a yacht in the Bahamas for two years before furthering his education at Michigan State University where he earned a two-year degree in agriculture.  He then worked as a truck driver hauling cars for several years.

On December 28, 1963, in Charlevoix, he married the love of his life, Karen Pischner, whom he met on Beaver Island.  They settled in Charlevoix and raised their family there.  Over the years, Gabe played an integral role in many areas of the community; he was an active member at St. Mary Catholic Church, Union President at Medusa Cement Plant, member of the City Council, Board Member of the Charlevoix Credit Union, Mayor of Charlevoix twice, and Knights of Columbus Grand Knight.  He was truly a pillar of Charlevoix and was willing to help anyone who was in need.

Gabe’s family came before everything else in his life.  He supported his children and grandchildren in all their endeavors; whether it was a sporting event, a play, or a band concert, he was always there cheering them on.  His grandchildren always got a kick out of him wiggling his ears, and will remember the countless hours he spent playing Candyland with them.  He also enjoyed travelling, reading, working in his garden in the summer, and rooting for the Spartans and Detroit sports teams.  He was always willing to try new foods and new experiences, evidenced by his parasailing adventure at 83 years young!

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Karen Campbell in 2015; his parents James and Leone Campbell; his siblings, Dan, Jim, Mary Ellen and Richard; and nephew Ian.

A funeral mass will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, June 9, 2023 at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Charlevoix.  He will be laid to rest in St. Mary's Catholic Cemetery.

Arrangements are in the care of the Charlevoix Chapel of Mortensen Funeral Homes.  Please sign his online guestbook at www.mortensenfuneralhomes.com