Daniel F. Shebel PORTAGE – Daniel F. Shebel, age 97, of Portage, passed away peacefully on June 8, 2017, at Divine Savior Tivoli. Daniel was born February 25, 1920, in Milwaukee, the son of Cyprian and Josephine (Kysley) Shebel. Dan grew up in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin, graduating from Wauwatosa High School in 1938. He then worked at the Western Electric Corporation until entering the service in 1942. For most of his tour, he was stationed in New Guinea, working as a winch operator, before being honorably discharged in 1946. His life changed dramatically in 1952 while, back on the job at Western Electric, he met the love of his life, Rita Verhasselt. They were married in 1953 and settled into a house he built in Pewaukee to raise a family. The desire to be his own boss brought the Shebels to Portage in 1964 where they purchased and operated the Sunset Motel for over 30 years before retiring in 1995. Daniel was a passionate golfer who also loved bowling, skiing, woodworking, handicrafts, traveling the country with his wife, Rita, and a good laugh whenever possible. Daniel is survived by his sons, Christopher Shebel, Tim (Diana) Shebel and Dan Shebel; nephews, Thomas Race and Jerry Race; other relatives and many friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; beloved wife, Rita, who passed away earlier this year; sisters, Virginia (Race), Gladys; and brother-in-law, Fred Race. There will be a celebration of Daniel’s life at Dino’s Restaurant in Portage on Friday, June 16, 2017, from 11:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. The family would like to thank the staff at Tivoli for their care of their father. The Pflanz Mantey Mendrala Funeral Home in Portage is assisting the family. |