Passing: Landis Pederson
Posted August 10, 2011 at 6:56 am by Ian Byington
I had caught up with Landis at graduation in 2009, during the ceremony & after, when the class was prepping for Grad Night.
Earlier this week, Landis Pederson (FHHS ’09) drowned, doing what island kids who grow up here have been doing for decades, swimming on a summer day in an island pond.
Landis’ family were among the very first people we met when we moved here in ’94, and I got to watch him grow at the elementary school, as a baseball & soccer player (I loved his left-footed crosses to the middle from the wing), and through high school.
As a young man he gave college a try, then returned to the island to work, lately at Friday Harbor House.
Last time I saw him, we visited in the street a couple of months ago, and he did that thing that shows the growth of maturity – after I asked about him & what he was up to, he asked how my sons were & what they were doing for the summer, and he asked how I was doing. We laughed about some soccer memory from eighth grade, then he moved easily down the street, with a smile. It’s always good to see a kid you know grow into a man.
Tough days for his family – Rhonda & Austin & Richard as well as Morris, Shelby and Alex, you know you have an island behind you who love you.
Missing you, Landis.
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Categories: Around Here
6 comments:
6 comments...
Thank you for the lovely words about Landis. Your compassion and love is evident. I also want to acknowledge the rest of his family: Moris, Shelby and Alex Estrada. Thanks for all you do for our community Ian. Shahn McGuire
My heart goes out to the all of Landis’ family and friends. You will be missed.
Although it’s difficult today to see beyond the sorrow,
May looking back in memory help comfort you tomorrow.
~Author Unknown
All of us at Friday Harbor House will miss Landis, although he only worked with us a short time he touched each of our team members with his great smile and caring attitude,
As you pass by our new south terrace please give a thought to Landis,he worked so very hard to make it look beautiful.
We are placing there a bench in his honor.
God bless,
I have many fond memories of Landis. While he was growing up, he was a permanant fixture at the softball field watching Richard play and always there to lend a hand in score keeping. He was always very pleasant and mature for his age. We will miss Landis tremendously, and our hearts are with the entire family.
Our thoughts and prayers are with all the Pederson family. Always remember we are only a phone call away. Hugs, Claudia and Gary
My heart and prayers go out to all of his family.
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