Walter Henry “Butch” Dabel

Jan. 3, 1938 - Apr. 7, 2018 San Jose

Walt Dabel passed away quietly at home on April 7, 2018. He was born on January 3, 1938 to Martha Andre and Henry Dabel in San Jose, CA. He was raised on the Dabel family ranch on Quimby Rd. where the family grew apricots, prunes and almonds. Walt was called Butch by a cousin at an early age, a nickname that stuck.

Walt attended James Lick High School, graduating in 1955. He then attended San Jose State where he was on the Judo team, coached by Yosh Uchido. He supported the judo team throughout his life.

Walt married Barbara Ethel Walker. They bought Barbara’s parent’s house and welcomed daughter’s Heather and Melissa there, and both lived there until they passed.

Walt taught in Milpitas schools for his entire teaching career. He taught special education classes, science and math.

Walt’s yard flourished with iris, camellias, dahlias, daffodils, fuchsias, epiphyllums, and many other flowers. He also raise apricot, peach, apple, cherry, orange and lemon trees, as well as berry vines. Tomatoes were another favorite crop, but it was the giant pumpkins that took much of his time. His largest pumpkin was grown in 2011 and weighed 1528.5, selling to a buyer in Japan.

Barbara passed away in April of 2009. Walt managed to live another 9 years, filling his days with his collections and his gardening. He was a true renaissance man – as comfortable growing flowers as he was pruning trees, fixing engines, or solving math equations.

Walt was predeceased by both parents and by his wife of 46 years, Barbara. He is mourned by siblings Jackie, Tom and Bill. He leaves to cherish his memory daughters Heather (Dennis) Hignite and Melissa (Matt) Davis and grandchildren Chloe, Liam, and Corey. He also leaves nieces and nephews, as well as countless friends and other relatives.

A celebration of Walt’s life will be held on Saturday, June 16 at 1 pm at Alum Rock Park’s Rustic Lands Picnic Area #1.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to San Jose State Judo Team, One Washington Sq., San Jose, CA 95192.