Myrlan “Speed” Handeland Family Scholarship

Myrlan "Speed" Handeland

This scholarship was established in honor and memory of Myrlan “Speed” Handeland at the time of his passing on July 12, 2003. Speed moved to Ridgecrest in 1976 and was actively involved in the community with clubs, organizations and volunteer work. He had a lifetime involvement with youth and community activities. He served on the Ridgecrest Chamber of Commerce Board from 1986 -2003 and was president in 1988 and 1989. He served for 10 years as Trustee of BPOE Elks #1913 and was one of a select group of Elks to earn the “Honorary Life Member” designation. He served as Exalted Ruler in 1986 and 1987. He was a past member of the VFW and American Legion in Ridgecrest and served as the president of the Coyote Booster's at Cerro Coso Community College for seven years. Throughout his lifetime, Speed received many honors and recognition for his achievements and was named the Business and Professional Women's “Man of the Year” in 1986. He was an active member of Calvary Assembly of God, with a special gift of ministering to the downtrodden and the bereaved, giving hope to those going through crisis with his compassion, support, and inspiration. He epitomized the phrase “a gentle man who is a true gentleman.” Speed spent 24 years as the owner of Eldorado Mobile Home Sales before he began working for Primerica Financial Services.