Obituary: Robert Ross Gabriel - Class of 1947

ASHEVILLE, NC - Robert Ross Gabriel, age 81, of Givens Estates, Asheville, N.C., died Thursday, Nov. 18, 2010, at John F. Keever Jr. Solace Center.

A native of Armstrong, Iowa he was son of the late Richard and Genevieve Ross Gabriel. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Ruth Ellen Williams Gabriel.

The Gabriel family moved to Madison in 1941. Bob graduated from Central High School and the University of Wisconsin School of Pharmacy. He was co-owner of Ories and Shafer Pharmacies until his retirement in 1989. He married Ruth Williams in 1972 and they resided in Madison until they moved to Asheville in 1990.

He is survived by a cousin, JoAnn Crawford and her husband, Dean of Brevard, N.C.; his longtime caregiver, Debbie Bishop of Leicester, N.C.; and several nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held at a later date. Interment will be in Sunset Memory Gardens, Madison.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The National Parkinson Foundation, 1501 NW 9th Ave., Miami, FL 33136; Carepartners Hospice Foundation, P.O. Box 25338, Asheville, NC 28814; or charity of one's choice.

Morris Funeral Home, 304 Merrimon Ave., Asheville, N.C., is in charge of arrangements. Condolences may be sent through the website.

Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on November 22, 2010 (submitted by Michael Vahldieck, Class of 1968)

Robert Ross Gabriel's class year is based on information in the 1947 Tychoberahn, where he is pictured among the graduating seniors.