Norman Charles Aberle, 71, of Clifton Forge, Virginia died May 4, 2020 at Lewis Gale Alleghany Hospital following a long illness. He was born in Los Angeles, California to William D. and Evelyn M. Aberle. A life-long artist, Norm started taking formal instruction in oil painting at the age of six. He graduated from Glastonbury High School, Glastonbury, CT. His first large mural still hangs in GHS central staircase. He received a BFA from Pratt Institute, Brooklyn, New York. He lived in Hartford, CT, Westerly, RI, and Key West, FL before moving to Clifton Forge. He enjoyed living in the mountains, but he loved the sea and sailing.
He was employed in graphic design; illustration; book design; owned a garden design and property maintenance business in Key West and was curator of the group of museums of the Key West Art and History Society. Creating murals, exhibit designs and installations focusing on the interpretation of local art and history became a passion for Norman and it was reflected in his curation of shows at KWAHS from “Henry Flagler’s Railroad” to “Mario Sanchez”. Norman regularly exhibited at two galleries in Key West. His paintings are in collections in the US and Europe. In retirement, Norman moved to Virginia and taught painting and drawing classes at the Clifton Forge School of the Arts.
Norman was predeceased by his parents. He leaves four siblings, William M. (Delina) of Wilson, NC; Judith A. (Stephen) of Covington, VA; Bruce A. (Pamela) of Marion, MA; and Nancy D. (Ginger) of Zurich, Switzerland. He also leaves three nephews and three nieces. Nicely Funeral Home, Clifton Forge is handling arrangements. Due to the current conditions, there is no observance planned. The family suggests that contributions in Norman’s memory be made to the Clifton Forge School of the Arts, P.O. Box 406, Clifton Forge, VA 24426.