Last week, WTOC lost a terrific colleague and friend with the sudden passing of our long-time Chief Engineer, Neil Pedersen. In so many ways, Neil was a giant of a man, perhaps best remembered for his huge, ever-caring heart.
As a television engineer, Neil was brilliant. There simply wasn't anything he couldn't design, build, install, or wire. And it was the very same with repairs. If, try as he might, he couldn't get something fixed, he'd simply design and construct a new way around it. From transmitter to transistors, he was a hands-on guy, who always led from the front, freely-shared his considerable knowledge with his team. And no matter the day, time or weather, no matter what, he worked continually to keep WTOC out-front and on-the-air.
Away from the station, first and foremost, Neil was a great family man, deeply devoted to the love of his life, wife Mary, and to their three children, Scott, Kim, and Ryan. If the Guinness Book kept standings for gentle, kind, and giving men, if not at the very top, Neil Pedersen would, at least, be high on that list. For along with looking after his family and WTOC, he devoted enormous time, energy and expertise to his other great love, Boy Scouting, becoming an exemplary role-model and mentor for young scouts and fellow adult-leaders alike.
Last week, with an opening for a talented engineer, one gracious and giving, God Almighty called Neil to fill that important slot. Neil, all who knew you, miss you terribly, and forever will. Rest, now, eternally, dear friend, within the comforting and peaceful embrace of our loving Lord.
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