Erik John Raisanen

October 21, 1973 - November 2, 2018

10/21/1973 - 11/02/2018

Past Services

Service
Friday November 16, 2018
1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Altmeyer Funeral Home – Denbigh Chapel
12893 Jefferson Avenue
Newport News, VA 23608
(757) 874-4200 | Directions

The world is a much sadder place today because Erik John Raisanen, 45, formerly of Brainerd, Minnesota, and 18-year resident of Newport News and Hampton, Virginia, died unexpectedly of injuries sustained in a helicopter crash while at work in Arkansas on November 2, 2018. He is survived by his wife of 14 years, Frances Bright; his 12 year old son Jake Raisanen; daughter Kiera Raisanen; stepsons David Doss (Kelly), Andrew Doss (Shanena Smith), Kevin Doss (Shelby Smith) and Ben Doss; as well as his parents, Don and Sandy Raisanen, of Punta Gorda, Florida; his brother Davin Raisanen (Christa), sister Elin Le Claire (Jarod), and granddaughter Ivy Doss, as well as a host of other family members and many close friends, especially Matthew Miles and Elijah Kramer, both of Brainerd, Minnesota. All will miss him more than words can say, and his absence will be felt for many years to come.
Erik was born on October 21, 1973, in Saint Paul and was educated in Brainerd, Minnesota, earning Associate’s degrees in Business Administration and Small Engine Repair. He worked as a carpenter for many years but really came to life when he earned his helicopter pilot license in 2010. In flying helicopters, he found his real calling.
Erik was a man who saw the potential in life. He always embraced new experiences, learning new things, and lived life to the fullest- skydiving, motorcycle riding, scuba diving, camping, hunting, fishing, martial arts and all kinds of weaponry, reading, making beer, playing drums, and cooking. Everything he did was done with passion and a fully committed thoroughness that is rare. When he worked, he worked hard and strove for excellence, and when he spent time with his family and close friends, he did so with equal dedication. He saw the humor in situations and in people, and lightened the hearts of those around him. He could always make you laugh. In all he did, he earned the respect and admiration of those who knew him.
Erik was bold and never let the risk of failure prevent him from trying something new. He really enjoyed new adventures, new experiences, and children. He was a much beloved Boy Scout Leader of Troop 84 in Hampton, and his attention and guidance will be sorely missed by the young lives he touched. He dedicated a lot of his time to his children, and shared in their discovery and exploration of the world, offering guidance and sharing the adventure of life with them. It was not uncommon for him to sword fight and wrestle with his kids and their friends from the neighborhood all afternoon. As teens, he spent hours talking to them and taking them to watch movies and play video games. He stood as an example of what it means to be a good man, how to make sacrifices for others, and how to be strong in the face of adversity. He didn’t tell others what they should do or be; he illustrated how to work to build a better life and a happy family, and how to get back up when something knocks you down. He always chose to be happy.
Erik was fearless, and in his presence, he brought out courage in others. He encouraged them to be their best by his intrepid example and by his generous support. His actions were guided by a deep faith in God. He treated others fairly and accepted them exactly as they were. Erik was a man who really listened – he gave advice only if asked, and it was always carefully considered and wise. The light of his spirit helped others’ lights to grow brighter. He illuminated so many lives. His desire, above all, was to ensure the happiness of those that he loved.
Erik was a man who truly loved his life, his wife, all his children, his family, and his job with unbridled passion. Because his capacity to love was so immense, the loss of it is equally immense. His loss has literally torn a hole in our hearts. He will be dearly missed by all. Grief is the price we will pay for loving him so much.
Fly high Soumiman.
A memorial service for Erik John Raisanen will be held on Friday, November 16, 2018, at 1:00 pm at Altmeyer Funeral Chapel, 12893 Jefferson Avenue, Newport News, VA, 23608.

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Marsha
5 years ago

My deepest sympathy go out to his family and friends he sounds like a great man. Sorry I never had the privilege of meeting him. My hearts breaks for you all God has definitely brought his angel home.

Carolyn Campbell
5 years ago

Enjoy the camping in heaven. I am sure the clouds are softer than the ground down here 🙂 Yours in scouting, Troop 84

ELIZABETH L WHITE
5 years ago

He lived for his Family that was my first thought when i meet him, Than he went running after my dog so he wouldn’t kill one of Frances pups…

spring sibbert
5 years ago

Erik aka “Mr Tambourine Man” this obituary describes exactly the guy I remember spending hours with on the phone listening to that song. I remember him trying to teach me how to play drums and trying to help me through some tough times. I remember how he enjoyed being a dad. Been many years since I’ve seen him, sounds like he only improved on all those traits he had so young. My deepest sympathy and condolences to everyone.

Chance Mills
5 years ago

Erik was a great pilot and a great guy to be around. He always had a smile on his face and always brought the moral of the crew he was working with up no matter what. I always knew it was going be a great job with Erik flying for us. Gonna miss you Erik R.I.P. brother we got it from here. Watch over us

Suzie Olson
5 years ago

I went to High School with Eryk, but hadn’t seen him since then. I remember him having this quiet strength about him, always kind. He was an Amazing drummer and had the best hair. I read this obituary with tears as it sounds like what we saw in high school was only the very beginning of all the wonderful things he would do and the amazing person he became. He left us too soon, and the world will forever have a hole where he left us. My prayers to his family and friends, the enormous sadness is reflective of your enormous love for him.

Gwen Nelson
5 years ago

That is the most amazing memorial I have ever read for a person. By the admiration and love I see being poured out, it is so clear he achieved what so many of us spend our lives trying to achieve. He had a great life, great love, great family, and And am amazing soul. You were so blessed to have had him. I am so so sorry for you in your grief. But so happy for what you had and what a good life he lived.

Sondra Alt
5 years ago

High school SADD poster campaign. I remember doing a poster with Erik. He did the artwork. I did the writing. The teacher was so amazed by our poster he kept it for future reference. Erik was so sweet and easy to talk too. He never put you down for what you didn’t have. He’ll be missed and thought of. Prayers sent to his family and friends. Fly High.

The Williams Family
5 years ago

Keeping the entire family in our thoughts at this difficult time.