Larry Robert Zabel

Larry Zabel, 95, of 186 Jerry Browne Road, Mystic, beloved father, grandfather, uncle, and friend, died Sunday, September 9, at Avalon convalescent center in Mystic. He was pre-deceased by his wife Lillian. Larry was born June 15, 1923 in Fessenden, North Dakota to Lydia and August Zabel.
He is survived by his daughter Debbie (Zabel) Hughes and his grandchildren Jeffrey and Kristen. Larry was pre-deceased by his daughter Susan Zabel.
He was the president and owner of S.M.S. Textile Mills in Allentown, PA and Norwich Textiles in Norwich, CT. After graduating from Lane Tech high school in Chicago, IL, Larry became a Navy fighter pilot. He was a member of the U.S. Naval Institute, the Tailhook Association, and the U.S.S. Philippine Sea Association, and a life member of the New York Athletic Club, Westerly Yacht Club, and American Legion Post 0016.
Sincere gratitude is extended to the dedicated staff of Avalon convalescent center. Funeral and burial services will be private. Friends and family are welcome to attend a celebration of Larry’s life at StoneRidge retirement community, 186 Jerry Browne Road, Mystic, CT from 2:00pm to 4:00pm on Saturday, September 15.
Buckler-Johnston Funeral Home, 121 Main St., Westerly, RI is assisting the family with arrangements.
For online condolences, please visit www.buckler-johnston.com.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.