Leland Ahlbeck
Leland Scott Ahlbeck was born on November 11, 1962, in Seattle, Washington to Robert and Jeanette Ahlbeck. He attended Briarcliff Elementary, Queen Anne High, and Eastern Washington University, where in 1986 he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Management Information Systems.
While in college, Leland managed an apartment complex, managed a Tobacco shop, and served as Director of Eastern Washington University’s Crisis Line. In addition to school and work, he also volunteered at a youth rehabilitation center.
After college, Leland worked at MicroRim and met Cheri Chandgie. Cheri and Leland were married in Renton in August 1989. They had fun traveling, wine tasting, RVing, and playing with their dogs. Leland went on to work for Microsoft, working his way up to Group Program Manager.
In 2002, Leland began a new career at Expedia. He served as Security Department Program Manager and Director of Transportation Technologies Operations.
Leland enjoyed an active life. He loved to paddleboard, cross country ski, golf and travel. He frequently reminisced about his travel experiences in the US, Mexico, Europe, Canada, and Australia. He also loved his boat named “No Bad Days” a reflection of his outlook on life.
He treasured the friendships he made at the Rainier Yacht Club, and in 2018 he volunteered to provide Yacht Club leadership, serving as Rear Commodore.
He had a talent for designing, building and creating things. He applied his creativity in the areas of cooking (BBQ, smoke meats), mixology, and carpentry. Like his grandfather, Harry Ahlbeck, Leland was a very talented woodworker. The high quality of his work led to a “moonlighting” woodworking business, “By Design Woodworks”, where he specialized in cabinetry, tables, and bar furniture.
Leland always had a desire to help others. From college to the end of his life, he volunteered to help family, friends, and charities in any way he was able. He was a frequent donator to the American Cancer Association and dog rescue efforts.
Many will miss his compassion and assistance.
Leland is survived by Cheri, his brother Stevan (and family), his brother Jay (and family), and numerous colleagues and friends.