VALERIE GALE

GALE--Valerie Chapman. Valerie Chapman Gale, 90, formerly of Scottsdale, Arizona, died on Saturday, April 1, 2023. Valerie was born in Jersey City, N.J. on September 2, 1932 to Norman Nathan and Gertrude (Aronson) Chapman. A diligent student and gifted pianist, she graduated with an AB from Finch College, a Masters of Education from Tufts University and a Doctor of Philosophy from Columbia Pacific University. As an undergraduate, she met her future husband, Alan B. Handler with whom she had three daughters, Nicki, Carolyn and Julia. As a young educator specializing in early childhood development, she founded the Peter Pan Playhouse in Union, N.J and the Nursery School program at Kent Place School in Summit, N.J. Later, moving to Tucson, AZ, with her beloved second husband, Roger S. Gale, whom she married in 1971, they founded Roots & Wings Inc., a community based counseling and human betterment agency which was recognized as a presidential Point of Light. Val was a tireless and trusted coach and counselor to those wishing to improve their life skills, never turning away anyone for lack of funds. She enjoyed entertaining in her home making sure all were welcome, particularly during the holidays and her standing Sunday dinners at Nee House ("no Chow Fun!") never disappointed. Val actively participated in her Fellowship and Men's Group meetings up until the time of her death. She will be deeply missed by her brother, Philip L. Chapman; her children and their spouses/partners, Stancy, Sally and Chloe and the many whom Val helped during her life and who became lifelong friends. A celebration of her life will be announced at a later time.