Gabriel E. Durbin, 69, passed away suddenly on Monday, July 31, 2023, in Carthage, Missouri. He was born May 8, 1954, in Joplin, Missouri, to Elmo Gabe Durbin and Earl Dean (Baker) Durbin. Gabriel was a lifelong Joplin/Carthage resident.
He graduated from Memorial High School in 1972. After graduating Gabriel took courses in various fields that interested him. These included drafting from Missouri Southern State College and a course from Bell Howell. After completing the Bell Howell course, he built a working television. Gabriel had a love of science, specifically Astronomy and Geology. When he and Reta moved to the country, he enjoyed using his telescope to view the night skies. He had an extensive rock collection, as well as a stamp collection. He also enjoyed photography and shared many of his photographs with family and friends. Gabriel worked at High-Tec Amplifier in Joplin and was a Machinist at H & H Machine in Carthage, where he was working when he retired.
On May 5, 1985, Gabriel married Reta Kern in Carthage, Missouri, and they recently celebrated their 38th Anniversary. You rarely saw one of them without the other. For many years they enjoyed camping, spending time together outdoors, and traveling to different states to visit relatives and friends.
Gabriel faithfully attended Neosho Community Chapel. He loved to discuss the Bible with others. Gabriel had a strong desire for everyone to know Jesus Christ as their Savior. It is a comfort to know that he is now in the presence of his Lord and loved ones, and that we have the promise of being reunited with him someday.
Gabriel is survived by his wife, Reta; their foster son, Terry (April) Royal of Mantachie, Mississippi; a brother, Jim (Brenda) Durbin of Joplin; a foster granddaughter, Esmae; many nieces and nephews; two Uncles, Steve (Darlene) Baker of Carl Junction and Larry (Cheryl) Baker of Joplin, and a host of cousins. He also leaves behind his dog, Hope, who will miss playing and snuggling with him. Those preceding Gabriel in death were his parents, Elmo and Earl Dean, and a brother, John.
The family would like to express their appreciation for all of Gabriel’s doctors, nurses, and the emergency medical attendants who worked with him on Monday.
Gabriel’s funeral service will be held at 10:00 AM on Friday, August 4, 2023, at Ulmer Funeral Home in Carthage. A visitation will be held from 9:00 AM until the time of the service. Burial will be at Fullerton Cemetery in Carthage.
Memorial contributions may be made to Carthage Crisis Center in care of Ulmer Funeral Home.
Online condolences may be made at www.ulmerfh.com. Arrangements are under the care and direction of Ulmer Funeral Home.
