About two dozen people gathered at noon by the pergola on March 24 to remember artist and former Real Change vendor Kerry Ewing.
For years, Ewing sold his art near the pergola at First Avenue and Yesler Way. Fellow Pioneer Square artist and long-time friend of Ewing’s, Sam Day, led a choir at Ewing’s memorial. Over the years Ewing sold art featuring cartoon characters, astronomical scenes, and abstracts.
At the end of February Day realized he hadn't seen his friend in a couple weeks. He found Ewing's body at rest in his tent on February 28.
Ewing is survived by his mother, Nellie Strange; son, Raphael Ewing; brothers, Eric Strange and Warren Strange of Minneapolis, Minnesota; sisters, Arlicia Strange of Minneapolis, Minnesota, Kimberly (Winford) Parker of Gary, Indiana, Temeka (Hubert) Norris of Naperville, Illinois; uncle James Coopwood of Memphis, Tennessee; and a host of nieces nephews, cousins and friends.
His family writes: “He was always able to make you smile and was there when you needed him. Although we will miss him every day, he will forever remain in our hearts. He was truly special and will forever be missed.”
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