WILLIAMSBURG — Rudolph D. “Rudy” Nabel, 86, passed away Friday, Feb. 26, 2021.
Rudy was born Dec. 3, 1934, in New Rochelle, New York, and grew up in White Plains, New York. His parents, Rudolph and Mary Ann (Sumetz) Nabel, started Nabel’s Nurseries in 1942. At age 8, Rudy was learning to follow in his father’s footsteps. After the passing of his parents, Rudy became the proud owner of Nabel’s Nurseries, where he worked until his retirement. The business continued until his youngest brother, Paul, retired.
Rudy was preceded in death by both parents; first wife, Joan Carmen Nabel, and their daughter, Marlene; sister, Erica Nabel Hogle; and younger brother, John Nabel.
Rudy is survived by his second wife, Helen Deirdre (Healy) Nabel of Williamsburg; sons, Jeffrey and Christopher Nabel; daughter, Heather Nabel; sister, Rosemarie Nabel (Herbert) Hoffman; and brothers, Kenneth (Teresa) Nabel and Paul (Kathie) Nabel.
Rudy and Deirdre enjoyed many years together and traveled extensively throughout the world. They particularly enjoyed visiting Deirdre’s beloved family in Ireland.
Rudy was blessed with many friends and business associates through his membership in several nurseryman’s associations and the floral displays he created for Rockefeller Center and Bryant Park in New York City. He was also a member of the White Plains Beautification Foundation. After retirement, his love for flowers continued by actively participating in district Rose Shows of the American Rose Society and his generous support for the beautification of the Williamsburg Botanical Garden. So many will miss Rudy’s wisdom, wit and outgoing personality.
The Nabel family will have a private viewing at Ballard-Durand Funeral Home in White Plains, New York, followed by entombment at Ferncliff Mausoleum in Hartsdale, New York.
In lieu of flowers, please give to a charity of your choice.
Share online condolences with the family at Bucktrout of Williamsburg Funeral Service.
