Letter: Roger Sherman was a one-of-a-kind ‘gentle giant’

Editor,

Whidbey has lost a gentle giant.

Roger Sherman was a tall man, but that’s not what made him a giant. First, he was a farmer; Roger knew the value of hard work and, in his quiet way, loved the land and took pride in how he and his descendants have cared for it.

Second, he was a teacher; just ask the dozens of young people who were part of his Sea Scouting groups. Third, he was a historian; someone who took his love and knowledge of this place and created books, articles, wonderfully entertaining talks and more.

He was a resource — and a willing and able volunteer — at the Historical Society Museum and with the Ebey’s Landing Reserve.

I met Roger while doing research for one of my shows. He was really interested in what I was doing, helped me in so many ways and became my friend. I deeply valued that friendship. He was, as Rick Castellano, director of the Historical Society Museum, said, “one of a kind.” I will miss him.

Jill Johnson

Langley