As many of you know, my father has been very ill since last June. He was one of the strongest men I know, beating prostate cancer in 1991 and third stage bladder cancer in 2001. Yet this most recent battle with cancer was a different story at 88/89 years old. He never quit trying, however, and would tell me everyday that he was determined to get better through physical therapy so he could resume his treatments. Though his handshake was stronger than ever and he never gave up, he lost his battle on Monday, March 9th at 8:00am. I was by his side, just as I have been for the past 4 months, along with my mother and my brother. After sharing such meaningful time with him over these months, I thought I would be more prepared when it was time to let him go and say goodbye, but I was not. I am blessed to have been able to share 55 of his incredible 89 years here on this earth. One thing I know is that my love of nature and nature photography originated from all the experiences I had with my dad in nature, and from his love for the outdoors. He will be with me each and every time I have the opportunity to feel the breeze in my face while embracing the outdoors and nature.
Dee Ann
Karl Mouttah Pederson, 89, of Houston, Texas, began a new chapter on March 9, 2015 -- everlasting life with his lord and savior -- his family by his side, after an unrivaled determination to overcome cancer for the third time. He will be missed beyond what words can express.
Born in Brownwood, Texas on February 28, 1926, he was the second of three children of Thelma and Ole T. Pederson. His parents, Thelma and Ole T. Pederson and his older sister Maurine Pederson Stewart precede Karl in death On May 7, 1959, he married Mary Dee Selman (Pederson). They were united in marriage for 55 years, nurturing and raising two children side-by-side. As a family, they enjoyed many wonderful summer vacations exploring the beautiful natural wonders of the US in their camper/truck. In more recent years, they enjoyed spending time with their grandchildren, and attending Sagemont Church, where he and his wife were members for over 20 years.
He is survived by his loving wife Mary Pederson, daughter Dee Ann Pederson, son Karl Mekkel Pederson, granddaughter Kaitlyn Taylor Ann Pederson, grandson Kody Karl Pedeson, and his brother Dr. Olen T. Pederson.
Known by his grandchildren as "Papaw" and by many others as "Pete," Karl loved his family and friends, was a hunter and fisherman, and embraced every opportunity to be in the outdoors. He graduated from Landig College of Mortuary Science in 1946, went to work for George W. Lewis Funeral Homes specializing in restorative arts, was a Mason of the Anson Jones Lodge No.1313 since 1954, worked for Schlumberger Well Servicing for 20 years, and started his own "Preferred Machine Shop" in 1972.
Not only was he a proud husband, father and grandfather, he was proud of his service to his country as an aerial tail gunner in a B-17 bomber on combat missions over Europe in the U. S. Army AirCorps, 8th Air Force, 34th Bomber Group in World War II.
The family would like to extend a very special thank you to Dr. Marcos A. Aquino of Pasadena, Texas for the many years of concern and care he gave to Karl.
A celebration to honor Karl's life will be held at Niday Funeral Home, 12440 Beamer Road, Houston, Texas, March 12th from 6pm to 8pm (viewing & visitation) 281-464-7200
Service will be at Niday Funeral Home
Friday, March 13th at 10am, followed by graveside services at Forest Park East (21620 Gulf Fwy, Webster, TX 77598)
In addition to flowers, memorials in Karl M. Pederson's name may be made to the American Cancer Society.
