In Memory of

Kathleen Schmidt '76 posted a photo:

Erik and I shared four wonderful years together during high school and my first year of college. He was a gifted photographer long before I met him, and little did I know at the time just how profoundly he would influence the direction of my life.

Erik encouraged me to take a photography class in high school, where he served as a student aide to our teacher, Mr. Laupp. In the summer of 1976, following my high school graduation, I traveled to Hawaii. I didn't own a camera, so Erik generously lent me his Minolta SRT-201 film camera. When I returned and showed him my slides, he said something I have never forgotten: "You take better pictures than me." Coming from someone whose photographic talent I admired so much, those words meant the world to me.

His encouragement and confidence in my abilities stayed with me throughout my life. In large part because of Erik, I went on to become a wildlife photographer and the author of seven wildlife photography books for readers of all ages. I wrote a dedication to him, in my first book. I wish he could have seen what his generosity and belief in me helped inspire.

Erik and I remained close over the years, and when he developed brain cancer, we were fortunate to spend time together on several occasions before his passing. Those visits, filled with shared memories and the warmth of our enduring friendship, were a precious gift that I will always treasure.

Erik left this world far too young, at just 35 years of age, but his influence on my life still endures. I will always remember him with tremendous love and gratitude, not only for the wonderful years we shared, but for the remarkable gift he gave me: the encouragement to discover a lifelong passion that continues to this day.

Thank you, Erik. You will always hold a special place in my heart.

Kathleen L. (Schmidt) Ryan, and Erik Jensen, Del Mar High School Senior Prom, June 1977. Photo by Del Laupp