In Memory*

William Drexel

William Drexel

Bill Drexel

Date of Birth: Saturday  March  23, 1946

Date of Death: June 1987

Est. Age at Death: 41 years, 2 months
 

 

Our class has many talented people including artists Bill Drexel and Odie ‘OK’ Harris.  Sadly both of these Vikings are no longer with us, but they left behind many gifted artistic works including the ‘Solar Arc’ sundial that they worked on together.

Bill and Odie (as we all knew him in High School) were good friends and partners on several projects; and the simple beauty of this piece is still available for viewing at the 4 H Park near Menaul and 12th street.  This piece was created in 1985 and was originally purchased and placed by the City of Albuquerque at the Girard and Central location.  It was subsequently moved back down to the Valley where it is now on display.

If you knew Bill or Odie, or if you enjoy this piece of art, please leave a comment for our other classmates to appreciate.

As said before, we had and have many talented people in our class, and it’s a special pleasure to be able to share some of their beautiful work with everyone.  Rest in peace, Bill and Odie, your class remembers you.

 

 

 

 

 

 

After you've read the comments on Bill's Profile, you may want to visit Odie's page

Click Here

 

Here's a picture of Bill and his sister Dottie

 



 
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08/28/14 04:54 PM #1    

Shari Weichman (Croker)

The Solar Arc is so unique and shows what a special and talented class we had.  I'm sad to hear that

Bill is not here with us any longer.  His gifts will live on in our memories. 

 


08/29/14 06:46 AM #2    

Geraldine 'Gerri' Rivera

You're right, Shari, and what pleasant thoughts come to mind each time I drive past of two really special guys!  We are all fortunate, indeed, to have been connected to one another through a very special group of people.

 


08/29/14 08:52 AM #3    

Craig Sowers

The Arc was designed by Bill and Odie as a tribute not only to the New Mexico sunshine but also fittingly to the marking of time. The deck below the Arc is a large sundial.  The slots in the Arc align with marks on the ground and as the sun light passes in its yearly arc to show the solstices and equinoxes, and so we reflect on 50 years since the release from our required public education at VHS we are reminded that only the passing of time and light will remain unchanged.  Thanks Bill and Odie for this monument.


08/29/14 12:37 PM #4    

John Leslie

Craig, great addition the the story of the Arc. When Hunter and I go on one of or rides through the valey there are two things he asks to see, his moms school (Valley) and the Arc, John


08/29/14 02:07 PM #5    

Ed Vaillancourt

Thanks, Craig...beautifully said.  

Bill and Odie, seemingly an 'odd couple' in their personalities, but a great team creatively.  Miss them both. 


08/30/14 08:21 AM #6    

Jerry Anderson

I'm lucky enough to have the Solar Arch in my hood so I can see it daily. :-)  Bill was a close friend. I apprecviate the art work.  


08/30/14 09:06 AM #7    

Judith Taylor (Richey)

What a wonderful, ever lasting gift. I remember it near UNM.  I'm pleased that it is now in a beautiful location in the valley. We are so fortunate to have known the artists.  


09/04/14 03:15 PM #8    

Mike Sheyka

Bill also has his artistic works of art  throughout the ABQ Airport  and many of the City of ABQ offices and parks. I know this because, my employer, The Daniels Ins. Agency insures the City of ABQ properties. I have been the insurance agent in charge of  the list of insurable items for the City.  I have also seen Bill's works of art hanging on the walls of Presbyterian Hospital.   He was by far the most talented artist, not to mention talented photographer in the State of NM.  What a tragic loss of such a young man of 41.  Rest in peace Bill.


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