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Official Obituary of

Harold Carl Rabe

January 17, 1932 - May 5, 2025

Harold Carl Rabe Obituary

Harold Carl Rabe, 93, of Shelby, passed away Monday, May 5, 2025.  He was born January 17, 1932, in Benona Township, the son of Carl and Anna (Dzur) Rabe.


Harold was born and raised on a farm, where he would spend his entire life rooted in the land and the values it instilled. On September 15, 1956, he married Irene (Friday) Rabe, beginning a lifelong partnership. Over the years, Harold worked as a general laborer at Dupont, and later joined his brother Lester in construction and plumbing. Eventually, he transitioned to full-time farming, dedicating himself fully to the work he loved. In addition to farming, Harold also patrolled cottages at Little Point Sable for 30 years. His dedication to farming lives on through his sons, who have proudly picked up the torch and continued to grow the family farm.


Harold was a member of New Era Reformed Church.  He enjoyed square dancing with the Melody Mates for over 20 years.  Harold loved to get together with family and friends, especially the annual 4th of July party.


Harold is survived by: his children, David (Sharon) Rabe, Diane Rabe, Raymond (Cheryl) Rabe, Sharon (John) Rapes, Chris (Jessica) Rabe; grandchildren, Carl (Sarah) Rabe, John (Melanie) Rabe, Jessica (Jeremy) Gendron, Michael (Jessica Mae) Rabe, Mary (Justin) Ross, Crystal Rabe, Kerri Rapes, John “Brian” Rapes, Kristy Rapes, Ryan Rabe and fiancé Kasey Morse, Brandon Rabe; and eleven great-grandchildren.


Harold was preceded in death by: his parents, Carl and Anna (Dzur) Rabe; wife Irene (Friday); and four brothers.


Funeral services will be conducted at 11 am, Thursday, May 8, 2025, at New Era Reformed Church, 4775 First Street, New Era, Michigan, 49446, with Pastor Ben Oliveira officiating. Visitation will be held from 5 pm until 7 pm, Wednesday, May 7, at Harris Funeral Home, 267 N. Michigan Avenue, Shelby, Michigan, 49455 and one hour before services at New Era Reformed Church.


Please consider memorial contributions to: Crystal Valley Care Fund, P.O. Box 451, Hart, Michigan 49420.


Harris Funeral Home, in Shelby, is in charge of arrangements.


www.harrisfhome.com

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Harold, please visit our floral store.

Harold Carl Rabe, 93, of Shelby, passed away Monday, May 5, 2025.  He was born January 17, 1932, in Benona Township, the son of Carl and Anna (Dzur) Rabe.


Harold was born and raised on a farm, where he would spend his entire life rooted in the land and the values it instilled. On September 15, 1956, he married Irene (Frid

Events

Visitation

Wednesday, May 7, 2025

5:00 pm - 7:00 pm

Harris Funeral Home

267 N. Michigan Avenue Shelby, MI 49455

Visitation

Thursday, May 8, 2025

10:00 am - 11:00 am

New Era Reformed Church

4775 First Street New Era, MI 49446

Funeral Service

Thursday, May 8, 2025

11:00 am

New Era Reformed Church

4775 First Street New Era, MI 49446