COTTAGE GROVE - Edward R. Zabel Sr. age 87, of Cottage Grove, passed away on Saturday, March 21, 2026, at Agrace HospiceCare. He was born on January 31, 1939, in Duncombe, Iowa, the son of Albert Zabel and Mabel (Wegman) Zabel.

Edward attended Duncombe High School in Duncombe, Iowa. He served in the Army for two years and three years in the Army National Guard. He was united in marriage to Karen Daniels on May 25, 1958, at Duncombe Methodist Church in Duncombe, Iowa.

Edward worked as a lab manager for Soderbergs and an optician for Dr. C.G. Schanel for years and he enjoyed the daily interactions he had with his customers. Later, he worked at First Supply in the warehouse and as a driver for Kayser Ford in Madison until his retirement in 2023.

Edward deeply valued time with his family. Although his career took him to many different places, he ultimately chose to settle in Madison to be closer to his children and grandchildren. He had a passion for flying and proudly earned his pilot’s license. In his free time, Edward enjoyed attending tractor pulls, horse pulls, and working with horses.

Edward is survived by his daughter, Kim Moser; brother, Jerald Zabel; sisters, Jeannine (Rudy) Kopecky and Marilyn Zabel; and granddaughters, Lora Vaughan, Bethany Moser, Ashley Taylor, Virginia Meyers, and Liah Gimer. He was preceded in death by his wife, Karen Zabel; sons, Edward Zabel Jr. and Larry Zabel; parents, Albert and Mabel Zabel; brothers, Roy (Zelda) Zabel and Wayne Zabel; and sister, Leila (Frank) Peterson.

A celebration of life will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, from 12 noon until 2 p.m. on Wednesday, April 8, 2026. Burial will take place at Cottage Grove Cemetery.

Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson East

Funeral & Cremation Care

5203 Monona Drive

(608) 221-5420

Edward R Zabel Sr.

January 31, 1939 - March 21, 2026

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