Erik Johnsen

Erik Johnsen, 32, of Traverse City died Wednesday, August 8, 2012 at Munson Medical Center as a result of injuries following a motorcycle accident.

Erik was born on July 11, 1980 to Karen Robinson and Gregory Johnsen in Dearborn, MI.

Coming from the Detroit area at a young age, Erik grew up and attended school in Traverse City. He graduated as a member of the class of '98 from Traverse City West High School, marking the event with a back flip on stage. Following school Erik was able to reconnect with a former classmate, Sarah Rokos and on July 15, 2006, the two entered into marriage at St. Francis Catholic Church in Traverse City.

Erik made his living in the oil fields acquiring the talent for directional drilling. He would always strive to be the best at what he did and was working hard to always get better. With his career came travel, which he liked with the one exception of often being away from home. Erik was one who liked his "toys", spending time wakeboarding and boating, at times snowmobiling, but enjoying most of all riding his motorcycle. He would attempt to golf or at least well enough to beat his father-in-law. And, in earlier years, enjoyed bow hunting and taking in the great outdoors. In high school and college Erik was an avid wrestler, continuing to demonstrate his skills on his unsuspecting family and friends. Erik was a very proud father welcoming his daughter, Anika into this world just over two years ago. His charismatic nature will be deeply and sorely missed by the many the had the opportunity to know him.

Erik is survived by his wife, Sarah Johnsen and their beautiful little girl, Anika both of Williamsburg; his mother, Karen and stepfather, Joe; his mother and father-in-law, George (Judi) Rokos; his sister, Kristin (Scott) Champagne; sister-in-law, Becky (Jeff) Muraida; brother-in-law, Robbie Rokos; nieces and nephews, Morgan and Fisher Champagne and Cady, Ellie, and Marian Muraida; aunt, Sue; and brother from across the ocean Ryan Jones; several in-laws, co-workers and many other loving family members and friends.

Erik was preceded in death by Edwin and Vera Zielke; Godfrey Johnsen; Marian (Rokos) Dunckley; and many other loved aunts and uncles.

Visitation for friends and family will be held from 5:00 PM until 8:00 PM on Monday, August 13, 2012 at Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home.

Funeral services will take place at 11:00 AM on Tuesday, August 14, 2012 at the St. Francis Catholic Church, with Rev. Kenneth Stachnik officiating.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be directed to the Anika Johnsen Benefit Fund C/O Traverse City State Bank, PO Box 192, Traverse City, MI 49685.