Leland Scott Ahlbeck

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.

13 Responses to “Leland Scott Ahlbeck”

  • Martin Gurth says:

    I’m so incredibly sorry to hear of Leland’s passing. He and I worked together at Expedia and I always enjoyed my interactions with him. He was always very thoughtful of everyone’s opinions even if he didn’t always agree. Rest In Peace Leland. You had an impact on everyone you came into contact with.

    Martin

  • Jeff Crumb says:

    I am so sorry to hear about this. Leland was an excellent coworker and often took the time to help someone with coaching and honesty. I will remember him and I know he lives on in the minds and hearts of his family and friends.

  • J Burnett says:

    I’m saddened to learn of Leland’s passing.
    We worked together at Microsoft in the 90s, and I recall his dedication to Cheri and to our team’s work (… and to golf!). My prayers go out to Cheri and his family.

  • Tim Tracey says:

    Leland was a rock star when we worked together at Microrim. Super creative and always had a positive attitude. He will be missed. My sympathy to Cheri and family.

  • Reba Haas says:

    My deepest condolences to the entire Ahlbeck family. Having been friends with Leland since his days at Microsoft and spending many meals, vacations and cocktails with him and Cheri I am going to miss that big loud, bursting laugh he had that filled a room. Always kind. Never mean spirited. He was a sweet person all around and very caring of others. Our shared love of dogs and martinis made for some pretty great times over the years. Gone too soon, but never forgotten for sure.

  • Steve Yates says:

    I am saddened to hear of Leland passing away. I remember how thoughtful, kind and wonderful he was. It was a true pleasure to work with him at Expedia. I hope you are surrounded by much love. Steve

  • Dominic Rocchio says:

    Cheri, I am so sorry to hear of Leland’s passing. IT has been awhile sense we got together as our lives get busier and busier. We had some good times working on the Motor Home. I am sorry we did not do more then just a lunch now and then. May God comfort you and hold you in his arms. Dominic

  • Olivia Godfrey says:

    Leland was a gentleman, always considerate with his words and never had anything bad to say. I am saddened by this news and wish his family strength and best wishes moving forward.

  • Scott Tidyman says:

    Leland was a colleague at Expedia and a friend. I admired his kindness and respect for others. Plus, it was always enjoyable sharing cocktails with him. Rest in Peace, friend.

  • Nick Dallett says:

    You were a pleasure to work with during our common time at Expedia. I’ll remember your sense of humor and great attitide, even in the face of great personal challenges.

  • Gary Lee says:

    Tequila tasting and poolside fun in Mexico were the shared times. Though our paths crossed infrequently, they were always festive, and I am shocked to learn we shall not be seeing our friend again. Rest in peace, Amigo.

  • Darrell Rangel says:

    I’m sad to hear of Leland’s passing. It was a pleasure to get to work with him and get to know him, if only for a short time. He will be missed.

  • Gurmit Singh Ghatore says:

    It is so shocking and so sad. Leland was very kind heart and was great inspiration to me when I was recovering from an accident. He was always smiling and had kind words for others. God bless his soul. Will you you Leland buddy 🙁

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