Gale Sawyer Hasler

A Life of Movement and Achievement

Born on December 20, 1946, in Chickasha, Oklahoma, to James Clay Sawyer and Wilna Grace Hopkins Sawyer, Gale’s early years were defined by the adventure of being an "Army brat." Alongside her family, she moved frequently, following her father’s stations through Missouri, Germany, and eventually Texas.

She found her home in El Paso, graduating from Burges High School in 1964 and later from the University of Texas at El Paso in 1968. A woman ahead of her time in the professional world, Gale earned a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology while double-majoring in Business Administration with an emphasis in Accounting. This combination led her to a distinguished career in the construction industry, where she served in roles such as Controller and Chief Financial Officer.

A Pillar of the Community

Gale lent her substantial talents to the El Paso community in many capacities. She served as the president of the El Paso Builders Auxiliary and served on the board of the El Paso Builder’s Association. Her organizational talents were on full display as Chairman for the El Paso Parade of Homes and the El Paso Home Show.

Beyond her professional life, Gale’s heart was dedicated to service. She spent years volunteering for the Sun Bowl Association including the Sun Carnival and the Football Team Host Committee, the El Paso Center for Battered Women, and the Child Crisis Center. Her faith and financial acumen also benefited Saint Francis on the Hill Episcopal Church and the University Presbyterian Pre-school and Kindergarten board.

Family, Food, and "GiGi"

In later years, Gale moved to Indianapolis, IN, where she met and married Michael Hasler. The couple retired to Austin, TX, in 2012 to enjoy their golden years closer to family.

Known to her grandchildren as “GiGi,” Gale was a refined "foodie" with a legendary love for cooking and interior design. Family dinner nights were a sacred tradition—Gale’s family affectionately remember her penchant for studying the restaurant menus well in advance to ensure the perfect meal. She possessed a creative soul and a gift for home organization that turned every house she lived in into a curated home.

Legacy and Family

Gale is survived by her loving children: daughter Merri Cronk and husband Scott; and son Kelly Malott. She leaves behind her cherished grandsons, Kyle Cronk and Alec Justin (A.J.) Cronk. She is also survived by her brother, Dr. James Clay Sawyer (Dr. Dianne Sawyer); her sister, Susann Collins (Craig Collins); and her nieces, Gracie and Diane Collins.

The family extends their deepest gratitude to the medical teams at Baylor Scott & White Lakeway for their dedicated care during her illness in 2024, as well as the staff at Brookdale Lakeway for their compassionate support over the last two years.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at the Episcopal Church of the Cross in Austin, Texas.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that contributions be made to the charity of your choice.