Phillip LaVallee's Coaches Remember Runner Who Died 'Too Young, Too Soon, Too Talented'

Phillip LaVallee's track and cross-country running coaches in Monticello and at South Dakota State University are remembering the Otsego 19-year-old as a special athlete. 

LaVallee died Thursday after a van driven by Linda Louise Gullickson, 67, of Albertville struck him as he ran on the shoulder of County Road 19 in Otsego, according to investigators. Gullickson sustained injuries and was airlifted to North Memorial hospital. 

“(LaVallee) was incredibly well liked and respected,” SDSU Coach Rod DeHaven told the Argus Leader of Sioux Falls, SD, “and all the other clichés that sound appropriate – too young, too soon, too talented.”

Those sentiments were echoed in the Star Tribune by Dave Wik, LaVallee's coach at Monticello High School, where he was "the school’s premier distance runner," according to the newspaper. 

“(He) had the gift. He was just a natural. On top of that, a great work ethic, great family and very competitive," Wik told the Star Tribune. "He always strove to get better; just your dream athlete.”

Related: 

• 'I'm Still in Shock. RIP Phillip': Social Media Mourns Phillip LaVallee
• Teen Killed in Thursday Car vs. Jogger Crash on Wright County 19