Olin John Pyrtek, a junior at South Whidbey High School in Langley, died at his home on Nov. 21, 2002.

Olin moved to Whidbey in 1999 from Vermont, where he lived in Brownsville, on the northwest slope of Mount Ascutney and in Norwich, part of the Upper Valley of the Connecticut River.

Olin had an inquisitive mind, a creative heart and a compassionate soul. He enjoyed learning and was a voracious reader.

Growing up in Vermont, Olin was surrounded by the rhythms and beauty of nature. He found peace and pleasure in the back country of the Green and White mountains in any season. Out west, he was awed by the magnificence of Yellowstone and Grand Teton national parks.

On Whidbey, Olin’s greatest joy was being part of the soccer community. A regular at the Saturday pick-up games, he loved the co-ed, multi-age aspect of them. Playing for the Islanders Select U-16 District club team, he took pride in being part of a whole Island squad that regularly beat their mainland opponents.

At South Whidbey High School, Olin was a two-year Varsity Letterman. Known to his teammates as “Odie,” he brought amazing speed, selfless play, and a deep understanding of strategy to every practice and game.

He is survived by his mother and father, sister and brother, and is remembered by the community of friends who loved him.

Memorial contributions can be made to South Whidbey Youth Soccer Club.

A Celebration of Life will be held in Olin’s honor 7 p.m. on Nov. 27 at the United Methodist Church in Langley.