Obituary of Richard Zabell

Richard Zabell, of Treadwell, an 18-year area resident, died unexpectedly, Thursday morning, Nov 7, 2013, at Bassett Hospital, Cooperstown. He was 70. The son of Seymour and Florence (Lapidus) Zabell, he was born July 4, 1943 in Brooklyn, where he grew up, and later lived on Long Island. He received his formal education at Long Island University and his Doctorate Degree in Psychology from the State University of New York. A licensed clinical psychologist, he was a unit chief in several down-state psychiatric hospitals, as well as his own clinic, before retirement. "Rich" had a wonderful understanding of human nature and, during is professional career, did a deal to help those he served. He also had an appreciation for, and derived much pleasure from woodworking. He was a 15-year active member of Delhi Masonic Lodge No. 439, F. & A.M. Surviving are his three sons, Ari Zabell, of Vancouver, WA, Saul Zabell and David Zabell; seven grandchildren; his mother, Florence Zabell, brother, Stanton Zabell, and nephew, Daniel Zabell, all of Long Island. He was pre-deceased by his companion of 11 years, Roslyn J. Craw (2010), and father (2012). Visitation was Saturday evening, Nov 9, with Masonic services conducted by Delhi Lodge, at Hall & Peet Funeral Home, Delhi. Funeral services were Sunday, Nov. 10, at Shalom Memorial Chapel, Smithtown, with Rabbi Joseph Topek, of Stony Brook University, officiating, and burial followed in the Zabell Family plot, Mt. Ararat Cemetery, Farmingdale. Shiva will be observed at the home of his mother, in South Setauket, Long island. Memorial contributions to "Heart of the Catskills Humane Society", PO Box 88, Delhi, NY 13753, will be appreciated. Arrangements were entrusted to Robert A. Peet, Delhi