Dave and I found out some really sad news last night. The two women in this picture, Mary Cooper and Susanna Stodden were killed while hiking this past week. The crazy thing is that they were shot by someone. We know this family through our close friends/family the Mallochs and through the Seattle Canoe and Kayak Club. Dave paddled with Elisa, Mary's daughter. Dave remembers Mary to be this incredibly positive and upbeat woman. We were in shock when we heard last night and we just sat there wondering why, how etc. Our thoughts and hearts go out to the Stodden family. The following is a statement from Dave Stodden, Mary Cooper's husband:
Here is a statement released by David Stodden of Seattle, whose wife, Mary Cooper, and daughter Susanna Stodden were the two women killed along a hiking trail near Mount Pilchuck in Snohomish County:
"In a time of shock and grief, we would like to focus on the tremendous positive legacy left by this extraordinary mother and daughter.
"As a librarian, teacher, activist, neighbor, friend and mother, Mary touched the lives of countless people. Susanna was dedicated to nurturing positive relationships between children and the natural world, and her commitment to peace was evident in her compassionate nature. Like her mother, she lived her life in service to what she believed.
"Passion for the outdoors was intrinsic to their lives, and family trips to the Cascades were a weekly occurrence. Susanna's little sisters, Elisa, 24, and Joanna, 21, follow in her footsteps and also teach and study environmental education.
"Husband and father David Stodden, and the community left by these two amazing women, wish to express their gratitude for the support and love offered on behalf of Mary and Susanna. In their memory, may people continue to walk the trails in peace and without fear."
A memorial service is planned for 2 p.m. Sunday, July 23, at Town Hall in Seattle.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be sent in memory of Mary Cooper to the Seattle Public Library Foundation and in memory of Susanna Stodden to the Washington Trails Association.
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