Joseph “Joe” Anthony Gabis of Wheeling, 74, died surrounded by family and friends after an unexpected illness. He was a beloved father, husband, brother, uncle, friend and physician. The second of 9 children and born in Steubenville and raised in Toronto, OH.
A man of strong faith, he was a long time member of St. Michael’s Parish. A doting husband and father, Joe took pleasure in his family’s accomplishments. He also enjoyed moments of togetherness, and was known for his unmistakable laugh. He enjoyed playfully teasing those he loved in an endearing, light-hearted way.
Joe loved sports, but especially had a passion for the Pittsburgh Pirates.
Throughout his life, Joe faced a series of challenging health problems, including prostate cancer, but he never allowed it to change the adventurous and out-going person he was known to be. Undeterred by the challenges, Joe worked up until his last days, and still went to sporting events.
In his professional life, Joe was known for his uncompromising empathy, effectiveness and profound generosity. A friend to his fellow man, Joe was known for using his personal time and talents for the betterment of all those around him.
Joe is preceded in death by his parents, Agnes and Anthony Gabis, as well as his brothers, Matt and Mark.
He is survived by his loving wife Barbara, 63, of Wheeling, daughter Mara, 36, of West Palm Beach, FL, son Damien, 32, of Pittsburgh and soon to be daughter-in-law, Rachel, 29, also of Pittsburgh.
Family and friends will be received Thursday, October 17, 2019, from 12 -8 pm with a Rosary devotions at 7:30 pm, at Altmeyer Funeral Homes, Elm Grove Chapel, 154 Kruger St. A Mass of Christian burial will be held Friday, October 18, at 11 am, at St. Michael Catholic Church.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association by clicking here or to Catholic Charities by clicking here.
Condolences may be offered to the family at www.altmeyerfuneralhomes.com.
Dear Barb…I just heard about Joe’s passing. We saw you guys on Oct 12 at Union Grill in Washington and he passed a few days later! I don’t know how we didn’t hear about it and I feel bad that we weren’t at the visitation. He was a great guy and we are glad to have known him. Prayers and sympathies to you and your family!
Hard to find the words to describe such a truly humble and compassionate Man of God! He truly saved my mom’s life and became a wonderful and exceptional friend! I can hear God saying “Welcome home good and Faithful Servant” May the Angels gently lead you into Paradise!!
Dr.Gabis was my fathers cardiologist. My dad loved him. I came to know his uncompromising care and integrity during his care of my father through an extended stay in the hospital, Then I loved him and respected him. He was always an advocate for his patients. His faith was calming. His skill as a Dr was amazing. His concern was uncompromising. I was broken hearted when I had heard he had passed. I am not worried for him for he is at peace, but the Ohio Valley has suffered a great loss.
My wonderful Mom (Lois Baker) was a patient of Dr. Gabis for several years before her passing. I want to tell you how very highly that my Mom, and I, and all of our family thought of Dr. Gabis. What a kind, thoughtful, thorough, caring, likable, and humorous man. He will be missed by all who knew him. My condolences at this time of loss. God Bless.
I just found out that Dr. Gabis passed away. I’m so surprised, didn’t know he had been ill. He had been my heart doctor for 22-23 years. He was such a nice person and had the best bedside manners, and of course, a great doctor. I’ll miss him. So sorry for his family’s loss.
I have the fondest memories of working with Joe at St. John’s Hospital , Steubenville, where we were both assigned on the 6th floor before he attended medical school. He was often was tasked with the care of the most difficult and complex patients on the unit because of his skill and compassion. My sincere condolences to the family.
On behalf of the children of the late Stanley & Mary Jane Tuchalski, we extend our deepest sympathy to our Gabis cousins as you mourn the loss of Dr. Joe. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
So sorry for your loss. Fond memories working with Joe as he started his practice. Keeping you and your family in my prayers
I always enjoyed talking with Dr. Gabis after Mass. His love for Barbara, family and his patients was such a testament to his character. “We give You thanks, Almighty God, for these and all your gifts, You Who live and reign for ever and ever. May the souls of the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.”
I’m so sorry to hear about Dr Gabis. I had the pleasure of working with him at East Ohio. Such a wonderful, caring physician. His passing is a huge loss for his patients. Keeping you all in my thoughts and prayers.