Nick Abdalla

Nick Abdalla would be the first to tell you he lived a mostly wonderful life.

He was born to parents John and Ina Abdalla on May 24th, 1939. He lived the first 18 years of his life in Santa Rosa, NM. He taught himself to scuba dive and spear fish in local lakes, he climbed mesas and found arrowheads and rock art. He was one of the lucky people who knew what they wanted to do in life right from the start. He was always an artist. He painted, drew, took countless photographs, made awe inspiring sculpture, and created the most wonderful valentines.

He attended college at Eastern New Mexico University, University of Illinois and University of New Mexico. After graduating, he taught art classes in the craft shop at what was then known as Sandia Base. He taught Painting and Drawing at the University of New Mexico for over 28 years. He served as Chairman of the Art Department for a time, but his real passion was always for teaching and making art.

Nick had 3 sons during previous marriages before meeting and marrying Susan Spring. Nick and Susan were inseparable for 47 years. They were married for 42 years of those years.

Nick’s family was a messy one that doesn’t fit easily on a genealogy chart. Some family members are bound by blood while others are related by love. He is survived by his wife Susan, his sister Ann Alls, his sons and their families. Jonathan Abdalla (children, Nick Abdalla, Christina Kaskabas and Bella Steffen) Corin Dupree (partner Jett Black) and Chris Abdalla (wife Nikki Ortiz, sons Aidan, Derek and Andre Abdalla)

There will be no funeral. At Nick’s request, his family and friends will gather for a grand party to celebrate his life at a later date.

In memory of Nick, tell a joke, kiss someone you love, make art even if you think you don’t know how and enjoy life. Add some kindness to the world in his memory.

Nick passed away, with his wife at his side on August 21st, 2023 at the age of 84. He will be missed.