Eric Hans Pedersen

Eric Hans Pedersen Resident of Los Gatos Dec. 1, 1963 - March 27, 2010 Eric died last Saturday morning at his home in the Santa Cruz Mountains. Eric moved into the redwoods above Los Gatos when he was 5. Growing up in the rugged terrain and being exposed to nature at its best left an everlasting mark. He didn't want to leave. And he didn't. He still lived in his cherished woods when his life ended suddenly early Saturday morning in the home in which he, his wife, Victoria, and daughter, Sierra, lived for 13 years. He was born in Los Gatos, the second son of Bonnie and Larry H. Pedersen, operators of the growing family business that was to become his lifelong career. He was vice president and fleet manager of A Tool Shed Equipment Rentals of Campbell. He worked side by side with his father, Larry, and two brothers, Robert and Lars. As an executive, he was in charge of maintaining the company's substantial fleet of vehicles and other equipment. As a young boy he became particularly interested in horses, specifically Appaloosas. Small local wins turned to regional triumphs, "Appy" shows in the Western states, and finally to state championships in open competition. He rode his horse Mo in hunter and jumper classes. He even instructed other, younger riders at Appy Horse Hill summer horse camp operated by his mother and her business partner, Arlene Kruse. During his Los Gatos High School years (class of '82) he could be seen cruising around town in a bright red Chevy pickup that was spit-shined to a mirror-like luster, constantly attracting onlookers. Over the years he enjoyed skiing, golfing, and hunting. His artistic side was revealed in his drawings and photography. He loved traveling and was an avid sports fan of the NASCAR circuit and the S.F. Giants. He also was proud of his service with the Loma Prieta Volunteer Fire Department. The absolute center of Eric's life was his family. He was a devoted husband, proud father, dutiful son, faithful brother and generous uncle. He also had an exceptional love for animals, especially dogs Sammy Joe, Angel, Coco and Ted the cat. He is survived by his beloved wife, Victoria; daughter Sierra, mother Bonnie, brothers Robert (Barbara), Lars (Ellen), nieces and nephews: Robert, Meghann, Erika, Thomas, Christopher, Kane, Samuel, Riley, Christine, and Steven. He will also be greatly missed by Lou (Lynne), Diane (Glen), Julie (Harry), Lara (Steve), Naveen and Arlene. Services were private. A celebration of his life will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, April 3, at the Redwood Estates Pavilion, 21450 Madrone Drive, Los Gatos, CA 95033 (South on Hwy. 17, off at Redwood Estates.) Memorial contributions may be made to the Loma Prieta Volunteer Fire and Rescue, 25050 Highland Way, Los Gatos, CA 95033. Tax ID Number 94-3117725.