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Gale Schabes, age 74, of Mendon, passed away on Friday, March 14, 2025 at her home surrounded by her loving family. She was born on September 25, 1950 in Three Rivers, the daughter of John “Jack” and Claire (Delehanty) Truckey. Gale attended Mendon High School and was part of the 1968 graduating class. On May 20, 1972 she married the love of her life, William “Steve” Schabes at St. Edward Catholic Church in Mendon. For 40 years, Gale was employed with Mendon Community Schools, serving lunches and cleaning up after all the messy children; all the while keeping an eye on her own children making sure they were behaving. Gale loved animals and even coaxed a stray cat to become her own, who became part of the family with the name of Momma Kitty. She was known for her baking skills, especially her famous cakes and brownies. Gale often tended to her garden making sure her gerbera daisies were the prettiest on the block. Taking trips with her mom to Three Rivers, Detroit, and Peacock for BINGO was a must. Quiet time with her family and friends at her cottage in Baldwin, overlooking Basford Lake while listening to Kenny Rogers, was something she always looked forward to. She was given the title of “2nd loudest mom in town” by her family, as a disciplinary need and supporting them at sporting events. She loved her little town, and was a tremendous supporter of the school, but above all, she loved her family.
Gale is survived by her husband of nearly 53 years; Steve Schabes; son; Steven (Laurie) Schabes; granddaughters; Taylor and Lauren Schabes; cousins and best friends; Kathy Stump, Babs Bohnke, and Kelly Martin; and many extended families. She was preceded in passing by her parents; Jack and Claire Truckey; brother; Mark Truckey; and her son; Jason Schabes.
Visitation will be held on Monday, March 17, 2025 at the Eickhoff Funeral Home (311 West Main Street, Mendon, MI, 49072) from 2 to 4pm and from 6 to 8pm. Funeral services for Gale will take place on Tuesday, March 18, 2025 at 11am at the funeral home with Pastor Carl Litchfield officiating. Following the service, burial will be in Mendon Cemetery. It is suggested that donations be made to the Mendon High School Foundation for the Hornet Softball Program or to the Alzheimer’s Association. Condolences and memories may be expressed to her family at eickhofffuneralhome.com
