Gary R. Wald

Mr. Wald was a great guy. Introduced us to poetry and grammar. Always supportive. Let me skip school and go to Lake Harriet to decompress. Awesome man. Michael Harvey - Portland, Oregon

Mr. Wald stands out in my memories for his often subtle, yet incredibly effective, encouragement and positive motivation as a teacher and coach. As a member of the 1977-1979 WHS Nordic ski teams, I will always remember his genuine concern and attention to every member of the team, which made us all winners regardless of our individual abilities. I can't help but think of coach Wald every time I strap on my skis and head out in the snow and I can only hope that I can reflect some of his...

My sympathies to Mr. Wald's family (as a WHS grad, class of 1977, I can't bring myself to call him "Gary"). I knew him as a teacher, and as the father of two close friends and fellow Explorers, Steve and Beth. If the measure of a man is - in part - his children, then Mr. Wald was a titan. His kindness and wisdom always shone through.

Mr. Gary Wald was a wonderful coach and teacher that I will remember for his warm smile, encouraging words and vote of confidence in all students. These were qualities that I always appreciated and continue to admire. I've never ventured out on a ski trail without thoughts of Dear Mr. Wald.

All my thoughts and sympathy to the Wald family at their loss.

Joni (Gustafson) Hughes
WHS '86

I remember Gary as a true pillar in the community of St. Frances Cabrini.

"May the long time sun shine upon you,
All love surround you,
And the pure light within you
Guide you on your way home."

My thoughts and prayers are with the Wald family and their many friends.

He was my Coach. He believed in us, respected us, expected much of us, and trusted us. We loved him for it, even when moaning about a particularly hard workout. I skied for three years, ran for two, and had English with him for one. But what I remember most isn’t his coaching advice or punctuation rules… it’s his genuine warmth and enthusiasm. Coach Wald’s all encompassing hug and the insight to know when it was needed was a gift. He made a difference in my life. He will be missed,...

Mr. Wald was a terrific English teacher. Always patient and kind. I feel blessed to have been his student. My sincere condolences.
Lynn Strand-Meyer
WHS Class of '88