Gale Waddell

Gale Waddell, one of New Mexico's finest artists, was born in Silver City to Guy and Katherine Martin in 1925, moved to Pecos and Albuquerque in the 1930's where she resided until her passing on December 10, 2019 at the age of 94 years. Gale was preceded in death by her husband Richard and brother Walter. She is survived by her sister Kaye Bennett, sons Robert and Don, Grandchildren Kendra and Gareth and great-grandchildren Aquilles and Shera. Gale met Richard Wasddell while she was studying aeronautic engineering at University of Colorado during World War II. Following their marriage, she earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Drake University, graduating with honors. She is a signature member of Watercolor USA and a founding member of New Mexico Watercolor Society. She also founded the art gallery at St John's Cathedral in Albuquerque. Gale exhibited paintings in several galleries including the Amapola Gallery in Old Town and was an award winner at juried shows. She taught budding artists watercolor classes at Continuing Education of UNM and through her own classes. She enjoyed travelling and taught watercolor classes on several cruises in Greece, Italy and England. She was an avid skier and enjoyed Sandia Peak along with many of her friends and family. Gale was loved and admired by her family and maintained a wide network of friends throughout her life including the Alpha Phi. We will miss her. A Memorial will be held February 15, 2020, 2:30 PM at the Cathedral Church of St. John's, 318 Silver SW Albuquerque. Donations can be made to the New Mexico Watercolor Society. https://www.nmwatercolorsociety.org.