Willis Gabriel (Bolivar)'s Obituary
Willis Gabriel was born to Samuel & Bessie Gabriel on March 2, 1926 in California, MO. He departed life on December 7, 2022.
A distinguished veteran of WWII, Willis was awarded the Victory Medal for service in the Asiatic Pacific Theatre. He held a Bronze Star, including a battle star, for participation in the Asian Pacific Theatre.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 63 years, Mildred McDaniel of Linn, MO.
They had three daughters, Janice Leslie of Williamsburg, VA, Carol Hightower of Lebanon, MO and Willa Tucker (Samuel) of Stockton, MO. He leaves the delights of his life, four granddaughters, Michelle Parsons (Robert) of Bolivar, MO, Samantha Cowan (James) of Dadeville, MO, Stephanie Tucker of Bolivar, MO and Sheri Tucker (Aaron Dryden) of Bolivar, MO.
His later years were graced with two great-grandsons, Jackson and Tucker Cowan.
Willis loved horses and enjoyed spending time training, riding and showing them. He lived in Greenville, MI for twenty years, but returned to his native Missouri for retirement and he enjoyed many years of involvement in activities of the community.
He was a member of the First Baptist Church and the American Legion.
Graveside services will be held at the Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Springfield, Mo. Date to be announced at a later time.
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