J. Erik Carlson
J. Erik Carlson, 74, of Ridgefield, Connecticut, passed away at his home on Monday, January 27, 2014.
He was born in Mt. Vernon, NY on January 10, 1940, the son of the late Erik J and Alfhild Carlson. He graduated from Edison High School in Mt. Vernon, NY and Voorhees Technical Institute in New York City.
Erik worked for many years as an Engineer at Pitney Bowes in Stamford, and later became self employed.
Erik moved his young family to Ridgefield in 1973 where they lived on Scott Ridge Road. He was a devoted father of three girls and attended every dance recital, band concert, sporting event, and school play. Erik was famous for pulling the kids sleds with his tractor in the snow, his ability to build and repair anything, and his love of the outdoors, especially the beach.
Erik was an active member of St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church since the early 80′s. He had been a member of the Vestry and Property Committee. He volunteered as a Lector, Sunday School Teacher, and Confirmation Class Leader. He also was a pie baker on many occasions, Nutmeg Co-Chairman, and the founder of Tool Time, a favorite booth for all men attending The Nutmeg Festival. He was always available, with his toolbox in hand, to fix, paint, sand, and refinish any part of the St. Stephen’s campus.
Erik is survived by his wife Patricia Hutchings Carlson and her family; his daughters, Julie Grubb and her husband Ricky of Boca Raton, FL; Christine Beirne and her husband Sean of Abu Dhabi, UAE; and Betsey Clark and her husband Peter of Schenevus, NY. Erik was the loving grandfather of three grandchildren; Carolina Seton Beirne, Amelia Lynn Grubb, and Evan Dylan Clark. Erik is also survived by his former wife and friend, Susan Carlson.
Erik was a proud and grateful “Friend of Bill W” for many decades, and leaves behind countless friends who he loved deeply and a legacy that will not be soon forgotten.
A Memorial Service will be held at St. Stephens Episcopal Church, 351 Main Street, Ridgefield on Friday, February 7th at 2:30 p.m. A reception will follow in North Hall.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Erik’s name may be made to St. Stephen’s Memorial Fund.
Kane Funeral Home, Ridgefield is in charge of arrangements.