A call went out to the community surrounding the Sarasota National Cemetery for people to attend the funeral of a 90-year-old World War II veteran with no family or friends to attend. The Southwest District heard that call and responded. Representatives from all lodges in the district joined the community with over 2,500 in attendance for the funeral for Edward Pearson Oct. 1.
Among the Elks of the Southwest District attending a veteran’s funeral who had no family or friends to attend are Sherrie and David Gillum of Venice-Nokomis Lodge #1854.