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Laura Anderson Obituary
Laura E. Anderson (Wadleigh) of Scottsdale, AZ moved on from this physical world on May 2, 2009. She was born on July 23, 1971 to Stuart and Karen Wadleigh. Laura is survived by her husband and soul mate David Anderson; her parents; her sister Amy Higuchi; her grandmother Bernice Reeves; and great Aunt Eileen Yost. She is further survived by her special friends Tango and Salsa, numerous extended families, and countless friends. Laura's earned her bachelors and masters degrees from the University of Nebraska and went on to work as a consultant, bank executive, and entrepreneur. She lived her life with love, passion and adventure. For Laura, no mountain was too high to climb and she lived to inspire and motivate others by finding their true potential. She worked hard, played hard and found the positive in all things. She was extremely special and will be profoundly missed by all who were blessed to know her. A memorial service will be held on Thursday, May 7 from 9:30 to 12:00 at The Boojum Tree Hidden Gardens. 16026 N. 36th Street. Phoenix, AZ 85032. Memorial contributions can be made to the Girls Rule Foundation or The Lupus Foundation.
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Memories and Condolences
for Laura Anderson
Sue Mitchell
May 15, 2009
I am so sad to hear of Laura's passing. I didn't have the privilege of knowing Laura, but had a great deal of love for Amy and Karen during the Coronado days. Amy and my daughter, Kiandra, were friends, and I was saddened when Amy was diagnosed with lupus. I remember how hard this was for Karen, and how incredibly positive Amy was as her life drastically changed. I'm sending my love to this remarkable family.
Shaun Schuyler
May 11, 2009
I was very sad to hear of Laura's passing. At Holmes and Coronado she always had a kind word and a ready smile for everyone. Her kindness and joy of life will be missed. My thoughts and prayers go out to her family.
Jenny Martin
May 11, 2009
I am unbelievably sad to hear about Laura's passing. I only wished I had stayed in touch with her through all these years. She was a great friend when we were kids. The countless hours that we played soccer, danced, played barbies (as little girls do), and just playing outside. Laura was always fun, and I will never forget that. I was truly blessed to know her. I am glad to hear she lived her short life to the fullest. I will miss you....
Susan Combe
May 10, 2009
I am so sad to hear about Laura's passing. I only knew her for a short time but admired her greatly. She was made of great stuff and everyone whose life she touched was truly blessed. I will miss her and cherish the short time I spent with her.
Susan Combe
Ann Gustafson
May 9, 2009
I was blessed to have worked with Laura at Wells Fargo Bank for over two years. She always had a way of bring out the best in others! She helped me to find balance in my life and to focus on what has true meaning. She taught me to BREATHE and to embrace the current moments of life.
Dearest Laura-- I will miss sitting next to you at the Diamondback games, receiving your encouraging emails and words of wisdom about meditation. You made such a positive impact on my life. Thank you for your love, support and friendship. I will miss you my dear friend!
Robin Orchard
May 9, 2009
To David and Laura's family and friends, Laura served on the board of the National Association of Women Business Owners with me. I have known her for 9 months, far too short a time, as I would have benefitted from a lifetime of knowing her. The impact she made to so many business women is deep, and her grace and talent will stay with me always. My heart is so saddened at your loss. May your memories of Laura carry you through this difficult time, and may you always remember how many people she touched. Thank you, Laura, for your sweet smile, constant encouragement and warm light.
Robin Orchard
May 9, 2009
To David and Laura's family and friends, Laura served on the board of the National Association of Women Business Owners with me. I have known her for 9 months, far too short a time, as I would have benefitted from a lifetime of knowing her. The impact she made on my life is a deep and lasting one, and her grace and talent inspire me. My heart is so saddened at your loss. May your memories of Laura carry you through this difficult time, and may you always remember how many people she touched. Thank you, Laura, for your sweet smile, constant encouragement and warm light.
Jenny Gray Gaona
May 8, 2009
I am fortunate to have been one of Laura's classmates at Coronado High School. Even back then, Laura possessed an amazing sense of grace and love for others. I will always remember her voice echoing down the halls, personally greeting every person she came into contact with. I don't remember seeing her with anything but a smile on her face. I thank God for allowing me to have known such a special lady, and I pray that His grace will comfort and strengthen all who loved her.
Nicole McGriff
May 8, 2009
I met Laura while she was with Wells Fargo. She always had a smile, an encouraging word and a twinkle in her eye. We became friends instantly and she was there when I got married. Laura was one of the best friends you could ever hope for. She put so much of herself into the world and the people around her. And she touched everyone she met. If Laura graced you with her smile, then you were truly lucky. I was very sad to hear of her passing and will miss her greatly. My love and prayers to David and her family....
May 8, 2009
AMY, MR & MRS WADLEIGH,
MY HEART ACHES FOR YOU AT THIS TIME OF SADNESS. PLEASE LET THE MEMORIES GET YOU THROUGH THE SADDEST OF TIMES. YOU ARE IN OUR THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS.
MARY KAY MARSHALL
AND
BECKY (MARSHALL) NATELLI
CORONADO SOFTBALL
John Hoppa
May 7, 2009
I had the pleasure of meeting Laura in Jr. High, and we remained friends through high school. I remember seeing her at our 10 year reunion and she still had that great smile and inviting personality. I will truely miss her. My condolences to her family and all her friends.
Crystal Figolah
May 7, 2009
Laura was a client of mine for a couple of years. I am a massage therapist and she truly became my favorite client. She always scheduled an hour and half but I always gave her 2 hrs not only because she needed it, but out conversations were amazing! She helped me become a wiser,stronger, better person. I admired her and truly looked up to her! Always positve and up-lifting.She truly has made a mark on my life as well as so many others. I will miss her dearly. To David, Tango, Salsa and family, I can only imagine the loss you feel. My thoughts and prayers are with you. She is an angel watching over us all.
Stephenie Hedstrom Kaufmann
May 7, 2009
I will profoundly and sadly miss you my friend. I met Laura in Jr High and she has touched my life ever since. Her magnificant spirit will continue in the many lives that she has touched. Stewart, Karen, Amy and David my thoughts and prayers are with you.
Mary Ostrander
May 7, 2009
I knew Laura for only a few weeks - she was so kind and open and I felt her warmth immediately when I met her. There was something about her that struck me - a wisdom and a gentle spirit, combined with the strength and ambition to help others shine - and I am sad that I will not have the opportunity to get to know her as I had hoped. My deepest condolences to Laura's family and friends. Clearly she was loved by many.
Jody Owen
May 7, 2009
Laura is such a gift and light to all of us. Her hugs were the best and her inspiration will not be forgotten.
JOEY BARBER
May 7, 2009
LAURA WAS A AWESOME SOUL. SHE WAS AWESOME I DREW HER BLOOD FOR 4 YEARS AND NEVER DID SHE COMPLAIN I LEARNED SO MUCH FROM HER. SHE KNEW THAT I'D HAD CANCER THREE TIME'S AND I TOLD HER THAT GOD WILL CALL ME HOME WHEN HE NEEDS HELP SHE'D LAUGH.... I GUESS HE NEEDED HER TO HELP OUT
Alison Bowdouris
May 7, 2009
I had the privilege of getting to know Laura when we worked together out in California several years ago. I will always carry with me Laura’s radiant smile, plentiful energy, passionate spirit and wit. My heart goes out to David and the rest of the family. She spoke of you all often and with such love. How fortunate we all were to have her in our lives. She will be greatly missed.
Lorri Rodger
May 7, 2009
I feel grateful to have known Laura and feel honored to call her my friend. She had such a positive spirit and helped me through a challenging time. My heart goes out to her family and friends. Laura will be missed but not forgotten as she will always be in our hearts.
Michelle (Metschke) Geis
May 7, 2009
I was shocked and saddened to learn of Laura's passing. She and I were friends in high school and roommates during our Freshman year at the University of Nebraska. Laura was such a positive and beautiful force in my life. She brought out the best in everyone she met. Even though we lost touch when Laura left Omaha, she never left my heart. She was an amazing soul! My deepest sympathies go out to David and her family.
Kurt Wallach
May 7, 2009
Laura and I crossed paths at Wells Fargo during a time of transition for me. her words of encouragement and praise for my work always remained with me as a motivator when I wondered if what I did made a difference. Now those words and her smile will mean even more.
Mary Ann Kimball
May 7, 2009
Laura, you left too soon. Your Life Spirit was so strong. You allowed nothing to diminish it. I had the honor of doing healing work with you on so many occasions before you left Omaha. The empitness in the hearts of your beloved family and friends must be profound. I know you have much more to do and that you will indeed be present to those who loved you. I can only imagine the beautiful colors your Spirit radiates now that you are back Home. Thank you for sharing your love, passion, and, joy with me. Mary Ann Kimball
Shyra Monkres
May 7, 2009
I'm sorry to hear about your loss. I knew Laura in high school. I remember her smiles and her positive spirit. May her presense forever be felt by those who loved her.
Tammie (Harwood) Nelson
May 7, 2009
My condolences to all who knew and loved Laura! She has left her imprint on us all and our lives would not be the same if she hadn't. She was a great gal back in high school and I am so glad to hear she had a wonderful life and family. I will NEVER forget her!!!
John Santoro
May 7, 2009
I am proud to call Laura a friend and colleague, but mostly; she shined when she talked about others and their potential. She always looked for the best in people and her time with us at Wells Fargo has left a legacy and commitment to 'leveraging the strengths and interests of our team members'. Simply put, she cared. We need more of that in the world today. I will miss Laura's spirit and passion, but I am a better person to have known her. My best wishes to David and both families.
Lori Severson
May 7, 2009
I met Laura last year at a horse show with a common friend. We got to talking and found out that we had way too many things in common, and continued to meet and talk. While I only knew her a short while, I knew immediately she was special and felt we were soul sisters. I feel for those who have known her longer as the hole she leaves will be huge. I only know that her light was so bright and it will shine on forever.
Jody Harbin
May 7, 2009
So Sorry to hear of Laura's passing.Like so many times after we sign that final yearbook promising to keep in touch we go our own way and here it is 20 years later.I knew Laura from plying basketball with her and she was always upbeat and ready to go. She was so full of life and always made everyone smile. She inspired me and was a truly genuine person.She will be missed dearly and I know will be looking down on all of us. My thoughts and prayers to her family and friends. Be free Laura and know you are deeply missed and you touched so many lives in such a positive way....
Mike Robbins
May 7, 2009
Laura - thank you for being YOU and for the love, passion, and joy you brought to all those you touched and to the world. I always appreciated your spirit and energy, and was grateful to have known you. Thank you for supporting me and my work the way you did. I will miss you. Peace and Blessings...
Christine Roberts
May 6, 2009
Laura, you are a truly wonderful spirit who we will all miss, even those who haven't seen you since graduating from high school. When I first met you back in junior high, you were friendly and gregarious and someone I greatly admired. You always had a positive effect on people and went out of your way to help others. You made a difference in many lives.
Stephanie Frost-Herr
May 6, 2009
Dear Dave and families,
I was so saddened to hear the news of Laura's passing. We were in the sorority together at Lincoln. When I think of Laura I think of her smile and contagious laugh. She was always so positive and happy and a true friend to everyone. She will forever be missed. I pray that you will feel God's presence and comfort in the midst of your grief.
Laura & I at peer counseling camp, senior year of high school 1989...I will miss you my longest-time friend!
Christine (Adkins) Barboa
May 6, 2009
Laura and I referred to each other as "my longest-time friend." Meeting as 8th graders, both strangers in a new school, we forged a bond that lasted 25 years. She was a beautiful bridesmaid in my wedding, and I was honored to be a bridesmaid in hers. Laura was selfless, dedicated, determined, enthusiastic, loving, radiant...she will be dearly missed. My thoughts and prayers to Dave, Amy, Stuart, Karen and the rest of the family she loved so much.
Judi (McCardle) Galpin
May 6, 2009
Laura and I became instant friends at Holmes Jr High in the 8th grade when we were both "the new kids." Although we lost touch after graduating from High School, I know that my life was richer for having known her all those years ago. I remember Mr and Mrs Wadleigh and Amy with sincere affection. As someone whose life has been personally touched by Lupus, my heartfelt thoughts and prayers go out to Laura's family. God Bless!
Richard Fethers
May 6, 2009
We have lost in Laura's sudden passing a beautiful person in the prime of her life. I was lucky enough to see her inner beauty that radiated and effected all that she came in contact with while we worked together. Also seeing her deal with her vunerabilities that she acknowledged and faced with so much courage. So many wonderful memories that I will hold forever as I'm sure many others will also. Important was that she was always greatful for the support of her husband, David. David we can't imagine the loss you now feel. This is truly a sad situation.
Von Hatley
May 6, 2009
I worked with Laura at PRB for a year in San Francisco on a project for Excite@Home. Every day, her smile lit up our room. She was extremely bright and was able to command respect from all of us on our leadership team, both at the company and client level. She was the consummate professional in every way, and taught us all her perspective on how to live and love life when back home in Arizona. It's rare that one meets a person that makes you better by simply knowing her, but that clearly that was the case with Laura. She'll be sadly missed, and forever in the memories of her co-workers.
Steve Cervi
May 6, 2009
You were a part of the most memorable basketball coaching experience I ever had. That Coronado team was full of wonderful girls. Thank you for letting me be a part of your world. You were a very special person. Marie and I send our love and prayers to Stuart, Karen and Amy.
Ashley Miller
May 6, 2009
I was fortunate enough to meet Laura last year through NAWBO (National Association of Women Business Owners). She sat by me at a few luncheons and was nothing but friendly and caring to me. I am blessed to have met such an ambitious and shining woman.
Peggy and Bill Trakes
May 6, 2009
Laura was a precious person and a dear and close friend to our daughter, Dena. We are so saddened at her passing. Our thoughts and prayers go out to her husband, family and many friends. The world was a better place with her in it.
Scott Larson
May 6, 2009
Lost touch with you after college but always enjoyed soccer practice and trips at UNL. mostly enjoyed the conversations on the way to night class on Wednesday nights. Gone to soon.
Lori Pete (Smith)
May 6, 2009
I met Laura in Omaha when we worked together at FNBO. She was the person with the purposeful stride. We inspired and confronted each other regularly. ;) I always admired her approach to all things with equal passion, regardless how little it seemed on the surface. She touched my life in many ways. I had the pleasure and honor of being in David and Laura's wedding. She will remain as the special friend she always was in my life.
Eric Neuharth
May 6, 2009
As a co-worker of her husband Dave I grew to know Laura. A truly geniune person, an upbeat personality with grace and a smile that was always there to greet you. Nothing in the world would ever bring her spirit down and I am happy she has moved on, though we will dearly miss her. Thank you for all the great conversations, strength, wisdom and advice that you have given me.
Linda Moritz
May 6, 2009
Thank you Laura for being such an inspiration to everyone around you! I am blessed to have known you!
Shyla Tant
May 6, 2009
When I was a young Girl Scout I was blessed to be friends with Amy, Laura's sister. I got to see the special bond between sisters on ski trips and slumber parties among other things. I have no doubt this beautiful relationship endured for all the years since. I am sending my thoughts and prayers to the Wadleigh family in this difficult time. Mr. & Mrs. Wadleigh, you raised beautiful girls!
Sean Hession
May 6, 2009
I had the joy and honor of being Laura's first manager at FNB Omaha. She was a young woman of immense intellect and insight, drive and detail, courage and compassion. The light in the world will be a bit dimmer without her presence. Yet I'm sure she will remain "present" with us always. My most sincere condolences to David and the family.
Kimberly Witt
May 6, 2009
I met Laura from the many CCC events and Girls Rule Foundation. She was always upbeat and had a passion to help others. My thoughts and prayers to her many friends and family.
Lisa (Hollestelle) Propst
May 6, 2009
I was in the AXO house with Laura. She was always smiling and positive. The people that she touched will always remember her attitude and influence to make the world a better place.
Katy Griess-Scott
May 6, 2009
I knew Laura as a sorority sister and friend. My prayers go out to Dave and Laura's family during this time. May your faith in God and the love of your family and friends sustain each of you.
Jeanene Farley
May 6, 2009
I met Laura only a year ago but even only knowing her a short while, my life has been forever blessed by her love, passion and beautiful soul. She was on a journey to make this world a better place, to learn - grow and to stretch her soul. I will miss her greatly. My thoughts and deepest sympathies go out to David and the families.
Here is one of my favorite quotes I received from Laura and captures the way she lived. "Live your life as though there is great joy to be experienced....an abundance of goodness in each person you come into contact with and the knowledge that you have enough wisdom to answer the mysteries that challenge you." - Meladee McCarthy
Steve Mack
May 6, 2009
I knew Laura in college. She was simply a neat person whom I always had the highest regards for. She, Dave, and the familes are in our prayers.
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