Hundreds Gather To Remember Coach, Friend

SPOKANE — Family, friends, students, and staff came out to remember a beloved Cross-Country coach at Spokane Community College.

Erik Anderson died in a tragic on-campus accident on January 19th and the memorial was the first time the public got a chance to pay their final respects.

At least 300 people attended the memorial, to tell stories about a man they described as a great coach, teacher, and friend.

The 38-year-old Cross-Country coach won multiple conference championships during his time at S.C.C., but those who knew him best said he lived life to its fullest.

For some, hearing stories about the coach at the memorial was especially difficult.

“It’s tough, you know, I listen to Roger speak up here. Roger, I want to thank you for hiring me at Clark Community. If you hadn’t done it, I wouldn’t have met, ultimately, my best friend,” S.C.C. Track coach Larry Beatty said.

Anderson died while attempting to dislodge some wedged bowling pins during a bowling class.

Anderson is survived by his wife, Mareesa, and two daughters.

A memorial scholarship fund honoring the coach has been set up at Spokane Teacher’s Credit Union.