Timothy Carl Zabel, Tim “Zabs” age 50 of Delano passed away after a courageous battle with cancer. He was born July 11, 1966 in Watertown, Minnesota to Thomas and Nancy (Triplett) Zabel.

Tim was a loving husband, son, brother, uncle, nephew and friend. He was a longtime Delano sports booster, fan and coach. Zabs was the consummate sports enthusiast. He could recall statistics of any sport, any age group; whether it was professional, collegiate, High School or younger.

Zabs was known for singing the National Anthem, Star Spangled Banner and especially Take me out to the Ballgame. His favorite song was by John Fogerty called centerfield, especially when he would say “put me in coach”. Zabs loved being part of kid’s lives, especially in sports. He had a way of encouraging them and praising them for the positives.

Tim loved being married and knowing that he and Audrey had that special family connection. He loved his family and extended family; he was known for letting KRWC know that it was someone’s birthday coming up. He always saw the positive in life.

Tim was preceded in death by his father Thomas A. Zabel; grandparents: Edward and Alma Triplett, Kermit and Louise Zabel; aunts and uncles: Edward and Shirley Triplett, Charlene and Howard Stark, Wayne Triplett, Bernard Skelly and Carl Zabel.

He is survived by his wife Audrey; mother Nancy (Triplett) Zabel; siblings Kellie (Mike) Wright, Paul Zabel, Kerri Lachermeier; nieces and nephews: Samantha, Kurt and Kirstin Klitzke, Karson, Klein and Keith Lachermeier; aunts and uncles: Dean and Angie Triplett, Marla Triplett, Janice Skelly, Elaine Zabel, Gary and LaDonna Triplett, Mary Jo and Darrel Menth;  many cousins;  special friends Shelly Hayes, Tim and Cindy Iten family, Elim Staff, Steve “Cheeks” Eilen and many many friends.

Mass of Christian Burial was held at 11 a.m. on Friday, August 19, 2016 at St. Peter Catholic Church in Delano, Minnesota. Visitation took place from 4 to 8 p.m. on Thursday and continued 10 to 11 a.m. on Friday at Martha’s Hall of St. Peter Catholic Church in Delano. Interment will be in the Calvary Cemetery in Delano, Minnesota.