William Dewayne Kabel

(Known and loved by all as Papa)

William Dewayne Kabel passed peacefully at home on December 23 at 6:50 p.m., with his wife, children, and grandchildren by his side.

William Dewayne Kabel, known lovingly as Papa, was full of life and lived it with joy, humor, and a strong sense of who he was. He spoke his mind, lived honestly, and carried himself with values rooted in responsibility and care for others. He was a hard working man who took pride in providing for his family and standing strong for the people he loved. Above all else, Papa loved being a father and a grandfather, and adored his wife, Connie Kabel, with whom he shared 39 years of marriage. Even after leaving this earth, he found ways to continue taking care of her, a reflection of a love that did not end, but simply changed form.

Papa was wise through lived experience, charismatic without trying, and vocal when it mattered most. He taught without ever preaching, believing that common sense was not always common and that if you built something right the first time, it would last. His knowledge was practical, steady, and dependable. His unmistakable smile could change the energy of a room in an instant.

His stories were legendary, not always exact, but always entertaining and always told with confidence.

For many years, Papa worked as a Shipping Manager, a role that required leadership, organization, and accountability. His work often kept him on the road and away from home for weeks at a time, a sacrifice he made without complaint to provide for his family. Through his career, Papa traveled internationally, including throughout Asia. His passport reflects a life of hard work and responsibility, yet no matter how far or how long his job took him away, Papa always returned home to what mattered most, his family.

Papa had a creative spirit and a love for working with his hands. He was a craftsman who always found something to create. He enjoyed painting and took pride in attending craft shows, where he sold his artwork and shared his talent with others.

No matter what the chaos was, he could always be found in the middle of it, soaking in the love and laughter around him.

Papa loved being surrounded by family. He made time for every invitation and always showed up. His grandchildren and great grandchildren gave him life, and he gave them laughter, guidance, protection, and memories that will live on.

A proud four time champion of the family fantasy football league, Papa carried that title with humor and pride, reflecting his competitive spirit and love for fun.

Papa is survived by his wife, Connie Kabel, of Olathe, Kansas; his children, William Kabel Jr. of Iola, Kansas; Jimmie Kabel (Jen Kabel) of Kansas City, Kansas; Keith Kabel of Kansas City, Kansas; and Desiree Chavez (Angelo Chavez) of Olathe, Kansas; his 21 grandchildren; and his 12 great grandchildren, all of whom brought him immense pride, joy, and purpose.

He was preceded in death by both of his parents; his daughter, Angela S. Vick (2016); and his daughter in law, Cheryl Kabel (2017).

William Dewayne Kabel leaves behind a legacy of strength, devotion, laughter, creativity, and love. He loved his family deeply, and the way he showed up for them will live on forever. Sunday football will never be the same.