Community Hero 2007
Erik Wolfe
July, 1999 - August, 2007
Erik, who celebrated his eighth birthday in July, was a sweet, happy little boy who “loved trucks, trucks, and more trucks.” He was equally fond of riding his battery-operated tractor. As his mother, Lanai, put it, Erik had a special penchant for telling jokes and silly stories – and especially for teasing his grandmother. He liked dining out at his two favorite restaurants, the Outback Steakhouse and Baja Fresh. Given his love for sugar cookies, it’s no wonder Erik enjoyed baking them as well. His best friends were his big brother, Gunnar, and two Mickey Mouse toys that he took with him wherever he went.
At just eight months, Erik had a tracheotomy. At two, he underwent thoracic surgery. Throughout much of his young life, Erik required supplemental oxygen, and had been on a ventilator around the clock.
To date, there is no known diagnosis for what plagued him. Yet this uncertainty didn’t dull Erik’s beautifully kind nature and brave heart. “Erik doesn’t view his life-challenging conditions as difficult,” said Erik’s mother toward the end of his life. “He embraces all of the obstacles that are thrown his way with a true fighting spirit. His vibrant soul and eternal optimism are an inspiration to his family, friends and acquaintances.”
Erik’s sense of humor and enthusiasm for life delighted anyone who crossed his path. His can-do attitude and constant courage are heroic attributes to be emulated and embraced.
