Eric Lavanger

On November 4th, the light went out of our world when Eric lost his five week battle with stone- induced pancreatitis. During his all-too-short 64 years, Eric approached everything with zest and gusto. Whether it was changing the words of a song to wake up his children; planning an extravagant dinner party with his wife; or grilling the perfect steak in his backyard, he brought the fun to everything.

Lotus Lake at home and Deer Lake at the cabin echoed with laughter every summer. The beaches of St. John, Hawaii, Mexico - basically anywhere below the equator - hosted his footprints every winter. Born with a little wanderlust, Eric and Jaimie loved to travel up north or across the world, on their own, or joined by their children, family and good friends. But no matter where he was, he loved a good story, a good meal and good company.
In the last four years, Eric was able to see his fun, entertaining and slightly mischievous personality come to life again in his grandchildren. Their “Boppa” was always there with a joke, a goofy face and a hug.
For over 41 years, he brought his sparkling personality to International Dairy Queen and his work family. Working in many departments in multiple roles through those years, Eric’s kindness, sense of humor and colorful neckties made the office a little sweeter. He could entertain anyone - from a small meeting to a keynote speech for hundreds.

This spirit was also appreciated at Torske Klubben, a Norwegian men’s luncheon club that Eric belonged to since 2004. Fiercely proud of his Norwegian heritage (he loved to brag that he was 100% Norge), he would celebrate that with his father and brothers on Saturdays once a month.

Eric leaves behind his lovely bride of 37 years, Jaimie; children, Hadley (Lucas) Wilcox and David (fiancee Nicole); grandchildren, Sullivan and Reeve Wilcox; brothers, Peter (Leilani) and Timothy (Peggy); and many nieces, nephews, family, neighbors, canoe trip buddies, co- workers and friends. He is now reunited with his parents, Allen and Shirley Lavanger.

Our family would also like to thank the wonderful doctors, nurses and staff of the Methodist 2North and University of MN 4A ICUs for taking such good care of Eric (and all of us).

A celebration of Eric’s wonderful life will take place on Friday, November 16 at 1:00 pm at Mount Calvary Lutheran Church, Excelsior MN. Reception at the church to follow. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating in Eric’s name to the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum or the University of MN Torske Klubben Fellowship.

Happy Trails, Eric/Dad/Boppa. You kept our hearts and our wine glasses full. We will carry your memory in every laugh, every glass raised, every pan of lasagna eaten, always. Skol!

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