Our beloved father, husband and grandfather Micheal Douglas Gabriels passed away peacefully in Rapid City, South Dakota on May 5th, 2026 at the age of 70. He is survived by his wife, Denise, his daughter Julia (m. Esteban), and grandchildren Mateo (2yo) and Elena (9m). He is also survived by his sibilings, Mark (m. Beverly), Tracy (m. Steve), and Trish. 

He was born on a military base in Virginia on August 6th, 1955. His childhood in Livonia, Michigan instilled a lifelong passion for music and playing the guitar, in which he taught himself at the age of 9. Over the years, he built an extensive collection of guitars that he regularly played. He joined the Navy in 1973, stationed in Whidbey Island, Washington and Japan. He served during the era of the Vietnam War. His military background instilled in him a passion for history, in which he was pursuing a bachelors degree in after retirement. He planted roots in Washington state after his military service concluded where he met his wife, Denise, and raised their daughter Julia. As a family, they enjoyed spending time together at the beach and watching sports, especially hockey. Micheal was passionate about many things in life; family, cooking, gardening, music and fishing. He always found something to do with his time. After 40 years in Washington State, he and his wife moved to the Black Hills to enjoy the quieter pace of life and beautiful surroundings. 

Visitation will be on Monday, May 11, from 5:00 pm - 6:00 pm; with a Christian wake service at 6:00 pm, at Our Lady of the Black Hills Catholic Church, in PIedmont. Christian Funeral Mass will be offered at 10:00 am, on Tuesday, May 12.

All friends and family are welcome. The family asks that donations to The Wounded Warrior Project or The Blue Hero Project be made instead of flowers or other gifts.