Oscar Henry Eriksen Jr.

WEEKI WACHEE – Oscar Henry Eriksen Jr. of Weeki Wachee, Florida left his Earthly body to be with Jesus on Sunday, September 22, 2024. Oscar was born just after midnight on July 1, 1948, to Oscar Eriksen Sr. and Helen Eriksen at his family home in Chicago, Illinois. He served in the United States Marine Corps. Oscar was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle and friend. He was known by his nickname “Rick” to many friends and family. Oscar grew up in Erie, PA where he and his first wife, Ruth Baker, had five children, Deanna Sands (Michael), Oscar Eriksen III, Edward Eriksen (Erin), Christie Durst (Dennis), and Carol Jo “C.J.” Huffman (Charles). He married his wife Lucille Eriksen in 1982 and with his marriage he welcomed two sons, Jason Hilobuk and Christopher Hilobuk (Dawn). In addition to his wife of 42 years and his seven children, Oscar also had one sister, Barbara (Fred), four brothers George (Jeanne), Fred (Patty), Eric (Bonnie) and Chuck, 24 grandchildren and several great grandchildren as well as many nieces and nephews.

Oscar had the best sense of humor and had a laugh that could bring joy to any room. He had a talent for building things and was known to create everything from model airplanes to detailed construction renovations. He enjoyed the hobbies of playing his harmonica, watching television, and having coffee and conversation with friends and family. Oscar enjoyed many adventures traveling North America by motor home and even enjoyed a few cruises. He was known to share words of wisdom such as following the “Golden Rule” and “Que Sera, Sera. Whatever will be will be.” Oscar could always be counted on with a smile to help anyone in need and would often share with others, “Mi casa es su casa.” He was often said to be like Dr. Doolittle because all animals loved him and many times, he made friends with animals in nature such as squirrels, lizards, and once even a wild pig. He loved his many pets over the years including his current Golden Retriever, Sandy. He was one of a kind and will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Dr. Seuss said it best when he shared, “Don’t cry because it’s over. Smile because it happened.” Memories of Oscar will always be cherished with a smile, just how he would have wanted it.