John Leslie Gabel

John Leslie Gabel, age 79, of Youngsville, NY, passed away on Monday, June 1, 2026 after a brief and courageous battle with acute myeloid leukemia.

He was born on October 6, 1946 in Callicoon, NY to Leslie "Butch" Gabel and Martha Keesler Gabel.

John graduated from JYCS in 1964 and later built a fulfilling career as a corrections officer and independent contractor for 30+ years.

In 1968, he married the love of his life, his beloved wife, Candace Marie Gozza Gabel, and together they shared 58 years of marriage and raised 3 children.

A proud veteran, John served honorably in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War from 1964 to 1967 aboard the USS Kearsarge as a navigator on a Grumman S-2 Tracker. His dedication to his country was a defining part of his character, and he carried the Navy values of honor and commitment throughout his life.

On the surface, John may have seemed a bit gruff, but those who knew him understood it was just the outer shell of a deeply loving, loyal, and honorable man. He was the definition of strength and care, always ready to drop everything at a moment's notice to lend a hand.

His commitment to his family and friends never wavered. Despite working two jobs, and often surviving on on just three hours of sleep a night, he never missed a single game, concert, or musical that his kids were in. He was always there, quietly anchoring the lives of the people he loved.

He is survived by his wife, Candace; his children, Christina Konrad, Amy Favre, and Lisa Gabel, and their Spouses' John Konrad, Bob Favre and Marco Rossi; his grandchildren, Jasmine, Hunter, Lucas, Tyler, Sydney, Zachary, John, Marco and Isabella; his great grandchildren; Millie, Oliver and Wesley. He was preceded in death by his parents, Butch and Martha, his sister, Lois Fulton, and his son John Thomas.

Visitation will be Monday, June 8, 2026 from 3-6 PM at the Harris Funeral Home, West St. at Buckley, Liberty, NY

Funeral services will be Monday, June 8, 2026 at 6 PM in the funeral home.  The Reverend Jay Vogelaar will officiate.

Following dignified cremation at Harris Crematorium, LLC, burial will be in the Calvary Cemetery, Youngsville, NY.

Memorial contributions may be made in John's name to the Youngsville Fire Department, P.O. Box 78, Youngsville, NY 12791.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the Harris Funeral Home West Street at Buckley, Liberty, NY. 845-292-0001 or 845-439-5200 or www.Harris-FH.com