Erik Richard Carlson

Erik Richard Carlson, loving fiancé, father, son, brother, uncle, and friend passed away peacefully on May 12, 2021.

Erik was born on May 25, 1973 in Virginia to Art and Beth Carlson. He graduated from Annandale High School and went on to attend Marymount University in Arlington, VA, studying Business and Finance. His successful career path as a Business Development and Marketing executive received much praise over the years, including his roles as Vice President Business Development Retail at Brookfield Properties and formerly Westfield.  Early on, living in D.C., Erik worked for his father, a James Beard award winning restaurant owner.

Those fortunate enough to have known Erik knew him best as a man who knew what he wanted and how to get it! Erik was naturally the center of attention in any room he entered, yet he always made sure to make others feel they were the most important. His big personality also came with a slew of nicknames including EasyE, Snakeman, and Bestie.

To know Erik was to know a fun, selfless, caring, inviting, and lovable father who would truly do anything for the people he loved. The perfect balance of charm, humor, self-confidence, and a good time, you could always count on Erik for a good laugh—and an even better conversation. To have Erik as a friend, was to have a friend for life. Period.

Erik met his soulmate Nicole at Bern’s Steakhouse in Tampa, FL. Never has there been a better definition of soulmates. From the moment their worlds collided, the two spent time traveling the world, and sharing unforgettable memories and an irreplaceable bond. They made a home together with his daughter, Savae, in Tampa.

An avid lover of all things fitness, Erik was a great handstand enthusiast, skier, and loved spending time working out. He was known to have spent time running and could often be found outdoors simply enjoying life to the fullest. Erik will always remain in our hearts as an incredible example of a genuine soul who knew how to embrace every single moment in life—and run with it!

Erik is survived by his fiancé, Nicole; father, Art; mother, Beth; daughter, Savae; brother, Art Jr., sister-in-law, Kay; his two nephews, and countless others he made feel like family.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations be made in his memory to the rare disease that took Erik away too soon, the Appendix Cancer Pseudomyxoma Peritonei Research Foundation. Please donate here.