what erik said to marianne

(Andree here) Happy New Year's Eve, everybody.

You probably know what tomorrow is. Erik's birthday. It would have been, anyhow. One year I bought him Jim Goad's The Redneck Manifesto as his gift.

Well -- Erik's not here to party with. Not exactly. But he does keep dropping in. You recall me promising you Marianne's story? Here's what E had to say to her, in no uncertain terms:

Erik visited me in a dream. Therefore, I was not surprised when, at Erik Rising, Dad Purdom spoke of Erik having communicated wisdom about transition to him duringa dream. Likewise, I was unfazed when a grieving colleague in China wrote me about Erik visiting him in a dream, smiling and telling him not to work so hard and to take care of himself.
It made sense to me. Erik cared. Despite the fact in my dream all I got was, “Check the sizes.” Yep, that’s it. Not that I’m complaining, mind you, as apparently a relatively brief professional association and friendship didn’t warrant more than a three word directive…thank you very much. I’m not even complaining about the slightly bemused, slightly smart-assed challenging look he issued when I had told him I couldn’t check the sizes myself as I didn’t know how. The look that said, “You can and you will.”
OK, so it’s true that when I took his advice I discovered this was something urgently needed, so much so that it caused a reorganization of the entire line of product that was vital for not only our launch but our survival as a new company. (But….really, Erik….three little words?)
Then again, maybe the look spoke volumes.

Believe me, Marianne, it always did. I'm comforted to hear it still does.

andy collen: 2008 is the year of e

E, chilly but undaunted at the southern end o' the hemisphere.

(Andree here) Andy Collen, of Andy and Amy at Happy Trails Animation, sent this letter along to the family a couple days ago. He says things here that I knew you'd all feel deeply so I asked if I could post. And he said yes.
Merry Christmas, everyone. E would have it no other way but merry.


* * *
Greeting Erik and Family,

I say this because somewhere out there Erik is listening and I wanted to give a 'last of the year' rant.

As the year comes to an end I look back and see loss, and health issues. As Erik used to always say it is a giant hair ball of life that we are trying to untangle... or maybe not. Just sweep the darn thing under the carpet and don't tell anyone. As I sit and try to think about the first time that Amy and I realized something was wrong with Erik, was when he and Nancy took us for a walk out the the fire pit to show us some materials that they had saved and wanted to reuse in a studio. They wanted us both to have these rather large stainless steel barriers. When Erik said that they would like them to be in our studio I could see in his eyes that it was something special that he wanted to live on through others. Amy and I felt very lucky that they were willing to give us or let use take care of something so unique by Erik.

Over the years Erik had told Amy and I about so many of his other friends that he wanted to connect us up with. I am only sorry that we did not have the time to make that happen. I did get a chance to catch up with a few folks at the Erik Rising party. Nancy sure does know how to organize some cool events. You know Nancy, pot luck is always nice too. That last night fire pit at the party was great having all those folks that I heard so much about sitting sharing Erik stories what a send off. I know Erik is not really gone he is just with each one of us now. We all have a piece of Erik in us all. Something I am going to cherish forever.

As I begin to reflect on things to come for Happy Trails... I always felt like we were one of Erik's pet projects... he was always trying to push us along. I see that his influences have brought on some interesting changes for us. It is his questions and discussions about the industry that made us begin to think in new directions and take some risks like he did with so many. It is with those risks that we are headed for some kind of 3 year contract with folks like EMI records, Warner Brothers Music, Disney, Lionsgate Entertainment and many more. Our little day by day survival studio is about to turn the corner and become a cutting edge content provider for some pretty amazing clients. But the one thing I know... is that I need to find my fire pit. Something to keep me tuned back into the smaller things in life... the things that really matter. Erik had a way of Yin and Yang... trying to find balance. It was when he started to include Amy and I into his excuse to get away and sit by his glowing fire-pit cook some meat on a stick... and talk... just like the Native Americans did... and before them the Cavemen. You could see the fire light dance on the rocks... turn your head and look up and witness a sea of stars. Which would then bring us back to... US... a speck on a planet that is a speck in a solar system... that is a speck in the universe.

To me this year is all about Erik... I will Chalk in my history book as 2008 the year of Erik. I am lucky to have been part of his universe and he will forever be part of mine. Rather then feeling sad I am honored and feel privileged to have the experiences that I have.

To Erik I say thanks for all the help big buddy. And to his family I say thanks for including Amy and I. On to a new year which will bring new stories and I hope some great Fire Pit meals.

Andy

mom and dad's christmas letter

(Andree here. Ornament by Dean) Mom and Dad sent along their Christmas letter wondering if it was postable. And of course it is.

* * *

Christmas letter 2008

This year started so happily. In February we went to Chile, Argentina and Easter Island with Erik, Nancy, Lyric and Jaeger.

It was a wonderful adventure.

With the glow of this happy time still upon us, life changed dramatically. The family and many friends came together to help Erik fight a dread disease and then ultimately help with his transition.

Erik died in August.

In September a lovely crowd gathered to celebrate his being at “Erik Rising”. It was a beautiful, fantastic day---many spoke of their personal relationship with Erik. Through tears and sadness we managed smiles upon telling stories about Erik.

We have a deep gratitude to all that helped Erik and us. We have discovered the depth of love that is out there for Erik and have become the recipients of that love.

Of course, we continue though each moment has taken on a different hue. As we celebrate Christmas and the Holidays this year, we will work at enjoying every second. Should Erik look upon us during these Christmas holidays, he will smile --- especially when we tease and challenge Lyric and Jaeger.

Terry and Donna

from across the pond

(Andree here) I'm very grateful to Marianne Kay for the post I'm about to give you, as it largely consists of messages she's transmitting from colleagues in China. Let's get right to them:

Marianne opens: Allow me to share excerpts of emails sent by colleagues in China. I’ve not asked their permission to post so I have omitted names but allow these excerpts to show that others overseas, whom you might never meet, were as deeply moved by Erik as those of us who were fortunate enough to have been able to share our memories and our grief at Erik Rising. I know they, like we, will never forget him. Please read their words:

* * *

Actually I don’t know how to describe my feelings. There were too many to express for this friendship between Erik & I. I just couldn’t accept such a great man passed away. I kept asking where God is. I don’t care how many miracles He made. All I begged of Him to was to put a magic on my friend Erik, but it seemed that He was not existent. Or maybe, just maybe He had more important assignments for Erik to spread his spirit in another world, but it wasn’t fair because we need the giant here too.

I met Erik in a dream last week. He was smiling to me and said “ Hey, don’t worry, or life will kill you.” He told me don’t work that hard and asked me to take care of myself. You know, he always said there are many puzzles in my head and I tried to organize all the pieces together. He wanted me to relax from work and take care of myself. I do miss this guy. He was like a meteor in this world; his life wasn’t long but it was shining and made the surroundings sunny.

I’ve never met Erik’s family but I do wish I could meet them someday. Erik talked a lot about them. I wish all these friendships could take the sorrow from Nancy and children.

It is really difficult for me to take this sad news, and still couldn't get my emotion recovered since I received your email yesterday morning. In fact, I was just thinking about paying a visit to meet him and his family in Oct.

He is such an important person in my life and always devoted himself to help. No selfishness at all.

It is a real hurt to lose a good friend like Erik and he will be always on my mind as my mentor forever. Seriously, we all owe him a huge deal for his contribution…

The news of his death hit me really hard. I would like to express my condolences for the loss of him. There were so many things that made him special to me. It is very difficult to lose this good friend. He will always be in my heart.

* * *

(Andree again) Marianne had an excellent story of her own, and it deserves its own post. Stay tuned. And the family's continued warm wishes and gratitude to you all as we move closer to the holidays.

sean found these!

(Andree here) Sean found these a day or two ago. These were taken overseas a couple of months before E's diagnosis, as Sean notes: "He was certainly not feeling good at this point, but as you can see.....full of smiles."

As the holiday approaches, our first without E here (or you could say, his first without us there), there will be new and old photos and stories to share. Don't be shy, mail 'em in! Just let me know it's okay to post.

"do not forget me"

(Andree here) I imagine we'll have some stuff to add in a bit, but the family wanted to share this photo we found. He looks so much like Dad here it's uncanny.

present from kelly

(Andree here) This popped into hotmail a couple days ago with the following note from Kelly O'Toole:

I only now have learned of Erik's death. My deepest sympathy to all. Although I
only knew of Erik and his family from their attendance at northwest mogfest, I
enjoyed every minute I managed to spend with him and left wanting more. His
sense of humor was truly wonderful and that is how I will always remember him.
Attached is a photo I took of him driving at NWMF 05. Feel free to use it as you
wish. -- Kelly O'Toole

Kelly, thank you for this photo. It's a good one.

photos from bruce

(Andree here) Bruce Beck sent some great photos along. I wish were were all on that Pinz with E in the sun, right now.

e at the wheel

(Andree here) I felt guilty for not posting and not brave enough to look at all the photos.

So, I pushed myself to look for only a little something and found this from Sean. For some odd reason it cheered me up a tiny bit. I like to think that E is up putting the hurt on some unpaved heavenly terrain. Whee!

Don't forget now - I will post whatever you like, just send it and tell me so.

and some more photos

(Andree here) From an epic road trip a couple years back, with Bill Skibbe and cameos by Walt Leuth and Adam Baker.

let's have some photos

All photos of the Rising, courtesy Art Thompson. (AndreeL)

a new friend: brett

Andree here. My regrets for not publishing more this past week. Sometimes I'm not as brave as I could wish, lately.

But I'd like you to read what Brett Ankrom sent along. He is (yes, I use present tense) one of Erik's newer friends, and I hope more of us will be meeting him sooner rather than later. This is what he sent over the course of a couple-a-emails:
* * *
I have spent most of today thinking of Erik, with my thoughts going to Nancy and the kids. I only knew Erik for 5 years but he had a profound effect on me. His passing has been very rough on me and I find myself grieving with an intensity that I only felt when I lost my twin brother. All of us share the First of January as our birthday's, I will not let a New Years pass without thinking of Erik and my brother Brian.

I know that you Purdoms have a special outlook on things and have a wonderful way of expressing yourselves, please don't lose that perspective. I hope that the coming months and years won't bitter or corrupt your zest for life and taint your heart with thoughts that have crept in my mind over the years since my brothers death. The road ahead will be filled with why's and how come, but keep your strength. Erik lives in everyone who loves him, hell I still have a voice mail from him from this summer that I cannot stop listening to, but he will always be a bigger memory to me than that. Yes, I like many have learned and borrowed from Erik, I will carry those traits that I so admired in him with me and try to pay them forward to others as unselfishly as he did. Just know that time won't heal the pain, nor should it when you have a loss as big as Erik, but all that know him will conclude that he wants the smiles to flow like the tears have. Yes I cry for Erik, but I will smile too, for I am better to have known him than not, God Keep You My Big Viking Friend.

God keep you strong Purdoms, God give strength to Nancy for her sake and Lyric and Jaeger. Keep the faith and always keep the flame of Erik in your heart.
Love and Warmth to Erik's family and friends
Brett & Cheryl Ankrom

(And when I asked if I could post this he replied)

I have not had the pleasure of meeting you or the wonderful Purdom Family. I am the guy Erik, Nancy and the kids hung out with for a month 4 years ago when launching the Mozo program at the Sysco Food Show in Cleveland. I could not attend the Erik Rising because even though I am 6 foot and 237 pounds of piss, vinegar & muscle from linebacker and bodybuilding days, I do not possess enough strength to stop my overwhelming sense of loss and grief from Erik. You may inquire with Nancy how I cried when he and his family left us from the month we had together, he truly became like a brother to me in that time (I lost my twin brother from Cystic Fibrosis at 16 years 9 months) I looked forward to him just walking in and heading to the fridge!

As I reply to you Andree, eyes welling, I know that the David Bowie and Devo selections are now branded deep in my mind with images of a great man called Erik Purdom.

* * *
How could I not publish this? Welcome, Brett, and we look forward to a happier day when we get to meet you in person. Meanwhile here's a virtual hug and hankie...

adam's editorial

(Andree here) Here's Adam's editorial from Carson City, Nevada's NevadaAppeal.com. I promised it to you all and know you will appreciate Adam's thoughts . . .

* * *
Since I dropped out of the mayor’s race a couple of months ago, I’ve had a lot of people ask why. Well, to tell the truth, right after I filed, there were a lot of “Murphie’s Law” type of events that hit me all at once. The worst thing, however, was receiving word that one of my best friends was diagnosed with terminal cancer. I spent the last couple of months or so traveling back and forth to Washington State helping him through the worst nightmare anybody could possibly imagine. Erik lost his battle on the morning of August 14. He was only forty-two. We have been friends since high school and to be honest folks, my head just wasn’t where it should have been to serve you the way I thought I should have been able to. My apologies.

I would have made a terrible mayor or supervisor anyway. I don’t have any wild, hell raising chickens in my yard, or anything like that. That and I probably would have done something totally out of character for a city representative too, listened to the voters. I do ride my bike to work though . . . sober. Not very interesting, I’m afraid. Okay, enough of the cheap shots. Sorry, that was my warped sense of humor rearing its goofy old head again.

Anyway, the reason I brought up my friend Erik was that even in the midst of agonizing pain and suffering, the amazing creativity and selflessness everyone knew him for would still peek out from behind the clouds once in awhile. I recall him reeling in agony and yet he was more concerned with making sure your beer was cold enough than focusing on his own dilemma. He always had an amazing talent for thinking outside of the box too. I confess that I had been doing a little snooping around his office the day after he died and I stumbled upon one of the latest projects he was working on. I won’t tell anyone what it was for obvious reasons, but I can say this. I was astonished by the fact it was such a simple idea and yet such an ingenious one. It was an idea that was very typical of my friend’s selfless outlook on life. It was something that was designed to help others, namely children. In my opinion, it was revolutionary.

Erik was just that kind of a guy. He was always creating something that made the world a better place, all the while provoking you to you think while he was doing it. He was extremely successful because he never gave anybody a handout. He had this amazing talent for pointing out to people the gifts they already had inside of them and helping them discover how to set their own ideas into motion. Wouldn’t it be great to have leaders like this? I think our country did at one time. This is the caliber of leadership you don’t find much anymore, but when you do, it’s like finding treasure. This is the kind of leadership our country was built on. This is the kind of leadership and integrity I want from my friends to my mayor on up to my president.

I’m like a lot of people who are sick of trying to achieve “life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness,” only to be told by my government twenty reasons why I can’t. I want leadership that knows that the first rule of being a leader is to know how to be a servant. I want leadership that empowers its people and their talents before shopping elsewhere. And where did this idea that we as Americans can’t think and do for our selves anymore come from? Well, you may not like the answer, but here it is. Ourselves. That’s right. Many of us have become slaves to our own apathy and laziness. So what’s the answer Baker? Well, maybe this is coming from a simple-minded barber, but I believe the answer is to repent. The word “repent” scares a lot of people, but it simply means to have a serious change of heart, do an “about face” and walk the opposite way we’ve been walking.

Instead of trying to go around the world policing it, maybe we should just go back to being the example to it. Maybe instead of allowing ourselves to continue being the fat and lazy consumers of the world, we ought to repent, cinch up our belts a notch or two and re-discover the mighty producers we once were. Maybe we ought to stop listening to our politicians tell us we’re all stupid and they know what’s best for us, and collectively take back what is right instead of allowing them to keep doing what is wrong.

If I do a bad haircut, my customer fires me. Why don’t we enforce the firing of public servants who do a poor job? I believe in capital punishment! I believe a lot of people in the capital should be punished! I also believe in the “time out” philosophy in discipline; “time out for a spanking!”

Apathy. Apathy is destroying us, one look the other way at a time. The way I see it, until we all stop focusing on ourselves first, we can never grow in the direction we need to grow as fellow humans. The next time you find yourself dwelling in the land of “Me,” try and “repent.” Do something to empower someone else, even if it hurts. Hey and if you’re ready for a real rush, do something good for someone who would never do something good for you. No strings attached either! I know, it’s the opposite of how a lot of brainwashed people typically think, but can you imagine what would happen if everyone did this for a day, or even an hour?

I’m Adam Baker. And this has been “A Little Off the Top.”

sean's notes from the rising

(Andree here) Sean sent along his notes from which he spoke at the Rising, and I thought you all might enjoy seeing them. Stay tuned for a worthy editorial Adam Baker wrote for his hometown paper, but right now Sean is in the spotlight . . . here you go.

* * *

“Erik Rising”

Opening

· My name is Sean Purdom and as most of you know, I am Erik’s big brother.

· I would like to welcome our friends and family to Erik Rising, a tribute to one of the finest human beings this earth has had the privilege of being peed on by…..and my beautiful brother.

· The Purdom Family would like to thank you for spending a portion of your weekend with us to celebrate the life of Erik. Yes, this day will be difficult and sad as we each discuss our memories of the “Big E”, but today is a celebration. A celebration of the extremely adventurous life that my brother led and usually attempted to wrap you in to whether you liked it or not.

· Erik was not like all the others…he was not like me. He was different and that difference is what made him uniquely qualified to be who he was. He was the kid that wore yellow pants to high school, when everyone else was wearing blue SF Riding Jeans or Britannia’s……Who was to know that this different and unique kid would grow up to be the master of his universe and live on a plane most of us can only dream about? If you were lucky enough to get wrapped up in the tornado called Erik…you understand what I am saying.

· Erik touched many people’s lives. He touched everyone in this room….and more. Whether you met Erik once or you were a lifelong friend…he touched you. Erik was a person that you do not easily forget. Be it his imposing stature or his silver tongue…not easy to forget.

· Erik lived 3 lifetimes to our 1. As I look at this video presentation, it becomes even clearer how much this kid lived. No adventure was too big for him.

· I would like to walk you down a path of memories that I shared with Erik, some good, some bad….all treasured.

Outline

· Growing Up Memories
o We did not always get along
§ We used to fight like cats and dos sitting next to each other in the car.
§ Many a fight rolling around in the back yard with massive headlocks applied.
o Erik’s attempt at playing baseball in grade school
o Mom divorcing us in the 7th and 8th grade
o Playing wiffle ball and hotbox for hours in the back yard.
· High School
o Erik cheerleading
o Erik’s crazy attitude
o Stupid stunts
o Playing guitar in BGHS plays
o Who would have known at this point that Erik could have mastered any skill he wanted
· Adulthood
o The Portland drug house (ed. note: Dude, they named it "Bad Manor" - AL)
o Working at subway-they could not understand why Erik’s fingers always had grease under the nails
o Owning businesses and bouncing ideas
§ It did not matter what your particular widget or service was….Erik could provide a barrage of ideas to improve your possibilities
o Project Work
§ Erik was an idea guy. More so than any other person that I have ever met.
§ Fun and challenging to work with….
§ Never settled for mediocrity
§ Pinz
§ Mozo
§ Most folks do not know this but Erik, Nancy, Art Thompson and I were going to toss a daredevil out of a balloon over 100K feet in the air….these are the kind of ideas Erik could wrap his mind around.
§ I always ask myself…would Erik (and Hans for that matter) think this is quality work?
o Cooking
§ Erik could have been a master chef. Restaurant owner.
§ Figuring out his recipes would have been a challenge.
o Property
§ Erik had an amazing ability to visualize and then realize his ideas
§ As you will see at Erik and Nancy’s property…he is a big idea guy….and it shows.
o Family and Friends
§ Erik was all about family and friends.
§ Loved his family, loved his friends

Closing

Friends, I could go on forever. If there is one thing about the Purdom family, there is no shortage of experiences. Erik helped create many of them.

As we all share our memories today, remember, Erik is looking down on us and saying….what are you guys all crying about? Why aren’t you at my house in the sauna or in the pit having a barbeque….and a beer.

Erik was the type of cat that learned from his life experiences. He had an amazing hard drive. He he remembered memories of our childhood that we long gone for me. Guys like him seemingly have learned all they can learn, but even Erik, as intelligent as he was…was learning until the end. His advice as he was leaving us…..balance….balance your life.

Cheers Erik…..I will see you on the other side……I love you brother.

* * *

Photo is courtesy of Art Thompson, and I need to share some more of them with you - Art, you and Roberta are a privilege and joy to know.

ron maatita

(Andree here) Ron sent me this last night.

He meant to get up at the Rising and read it, but sometimes there's only so much the heart can take at a particular time. Here at the blog it's here safely to be read over and over. So excellent Ron, you have the com. . .

* * *

These words sat folded in my pocket for the duration of the celebration.

I met Erik in the fall of 1990 (or there about). Back then I was a design school dropout driving a courier van for LA Gear in Los Angeles, and I was fully intent on becoming a footwear designer. No schools were teaching Athletic footwear design at that time and I’d hoped the best way to learn the craft was from the inside. Once inside the company I forced my design portfolio onto anyone who would entertain me. From CFO’s to salespeople, designers to janitors, I was met with the usual pat on the head and canned words of encouragement, until I met Erik.

I approached the largest man I’d ever meet, whom at the time sported the largest braided ponytail I’d ever seen, expecting to be flicked away like the pest I was convinced to be. To my pleasant surprise, he spoke to me with a sincerity and enthusiasm yet to be rivaled by anyone in my life. He had a way of speaking to this stranger as if I were the only person at the party. Over time he took me under his expansive wings and molded me into a footwear designer, we became friends as well. In early 1994 I finally earned the design 1 position for Mens and Boys footwear, working under my mentor and buddy. I owed him immensely.

The next few years at Gear are where I honed my skills and continued my education. In addition to the hard work and late nights, Erik taught me to find inspiration in the world around me, as it was everywhere. We partook in field trips to stimulate the mind, dug through countless boxes of airplane parts, watched sculptures which shot fire and destroyed themselves and on at least one occasion, witnessed a man in Golden Gate Park who appeared to be in his 50’s fully dressed like a baby, diaper, bonnet and all. Inspiration came from all of this. He also taught me the fine art of filing margarita mix in my file cabinet under “M” and how to drink Sierra Nevada Pale Ale in full view of the company’s security cameras, after hours of course.

After Erik left the corporate world I joined him as a sub contractor to Purdom Footwear Design. This was to become the absolute pinnacle of my career. We took on only the most interesting of challenges and quickly became a sought after “full service” resource. From design to hand made prototyping, promotional vehicles to protective sport brassieres, we did it all- and I’m proud to say that we did it better than the other guys. As with all things worthy, the challenges proved to be stressful and we faced them with grace and endless amounts of laughter. At this point in time our careers became our lifestyle. This was no job. The days were long and the projects were rewarding. I was proud that Erik referred to me as his #1 through it all. I long for those days.

In our years together, we shared an eventful and interesting bond. He was the man responsible for my pre-wedding pep talk. We shared the births of our first daughters and the untimely deaths of our fathers-in-law, who died exactly a week apart in 1998. We shared celebrations and music, meteor showers and micro brews, uproarious laughter and tears. I can still feel the pain of the collision we suffered as we carved the Summit Run, snowboarding in Big Bear. Though I don’t think he suffered as much as I did.

I made the difficult decision to return to the corporate world in 2001. Erik and I had remained friends, though his returning to Washington State and our life’s demands would keep us apart. We’d go on to see each other at trade shows and during the odd business trip. Each meeting only reminding me of how much I missed him. He was never too bashful to tell me that he felt the same way. On a winter evening in 2006 I walked him to his cab in Las Vegas (Yes, many a drink flowed that night). Before he pulled away Erik got out of his cab as if he’d forgotten something and said, “I miss you, buddy”.

The last time I saw Erik was in early August. I was fortunate to spend a couple days in Washougal. Even in sickness he still showed concern for others. Looking at the clock, he urged me to get on the road and not miss my flight. The last tearful words I shared with him were that I loved him and that he’s always with me. I also told him that he’s the best friend my life has ever had. I left, convinced that we’d see each other again.

Erik gave me gifts of knowledge, experience and friendship. He opened doors for me. I can only honor him by sharing that knowledge which he so selflessly gave to me. I will never again meet anyone like Erik Purdom.

I will miss him painfully for the rest of my life.

uncle doug

(Andree here) Here's something Nancy's Uncle Doug in Minnesota wanted to say in tribute...
* * *
To my dear niece Nancy and all of the Purdom family, it is said by many and most all that met and knew Erik that he touched their hearts and this very much also holds true for me.

His outgoing nature seemed to me to be much like his father's and to me it created and atmosphere that anyone would enjoy.

It is not enough to just say that we miss him, but to say that we all loved him!

My last visit with Erik and Nancy was when they stopped by here at my home on East Battle Lake on their way back from a shoe sales trip to New York.

I am so glad that they did that as it was a great joy for me to see then again. It was also the first time I saw their children and I also immediately became very fond of them. They, no doubt, are much like their parents.

On that last visit Erik gave me a pair of special designed shoes which I am wearing now as I write this. My sister, Gerry, recently described them as "European Style". I will now cherish them forever with thoughts of Eric.

I most certainly wish that I could have made the trip to Washington for Erik Rising as I know it will be something very special. As it is I have been in tears so much of the time with this that I have had very difficult time in writing this.

Close family ties have always been very meaningful to me and I do plan to visit family out there again, though, sometime in the future.

The Washougal area also brings back many pleasant memories with all of the time I spent on Lake River there years ago.

I can not say enough for what a great loss it is to lose Erik...


Doug Kramer

audrey campbell writes

(Andree here) Amy Collen - a major force in the team that brought the multimedia presentation to the Rising - received a note from Audrey Campbell. Audrey's known most of us through the last over-a-decade, through gallery openings and art car drive ins and cartooning jams and animation festivals.

Imagine what angelic patience THAT takes.

Speaking of angelic, she and her husband Scot "Extremo" Campbell came to the Rising, and these words are her gift to Erik.

NAMASTE
Namaste: "The light in me honours the light in you" in Sanskrit. Traditionally said as a greeting.
A friend of Scot’s passed away 6 weeks ago. I didn’t know him well. We met Erik through a friend at Scot’s first art show at the Basil Hallward Gallery in 2003. He really wanted to buy a painting called “Kathy Kitty Goes to Ice Cream City” but it had already been sold, so he commissioned a painting from Scot for his daughter Lyric.
We got to know Erik and his beautiful wife Nancy over the past few years, Scot more than I. We usually met up at a mutual friend’s birthday party, once a year. Erik was a very large Viking of a man with a booming voice and a boisterous manner. He was intelligent, quick witted and no doubt ADHD. Wherever he was, he was the event.

In March of this year he was diagnosed with an aggressive form of pancreatic cancer and passed away six weeks ago, he was 42. Saturday was his memorial. Erik was a very interesting and quirky person. During the memorial I could not tell apart his actual siblings from his friends. I had met Hans, his younger brother, and Andre, his sister, before but everyone who spoke seemed to be a brother of his. As it turned out this was the way Erik did life.
I learned many things about Erik on Saturday that I didn’t know before:
There were two kinds of people in Erik’s world, friends and strangers.
He fed and nurtured all his relationships.
You were never an acquaintance, you were a part of his life. If you came to visit and he was building a chicken coop, you were building it too.
He was the kid in high school that wore the yellow pants and thought they were cool.
He pushed people to be better and inspired them to be.
The things I did know about Erik were:
He loved to laugh and tell stories about anything and nothing and he had a story for everything.
He had an energy and life force that few could ignore or would want to.
Problems were insignificant, annoyances if even elevated to that level.
In his presence one felt safe.
Of course there were many stories told that day, lots of laughs and many more tears.
I have recently been going through a passage of growth and understanding, a milestone of life, realizing more clearly that all the frustrations in my life come from inside me and not from the people I assign my frustrations to! All the craziness in my life is from me? What? I am now realizing that, well, yes, it is.
I recently read a quote: “What’s best for me is already on it’s way.” I take that to mean that the Universe provides. Erik’s memorial brought me once again the understanding that I have got to live each day in joy and to take the time to enjoy the world and experience my life. Our time here together is too short and the people in my life are far more important than the lawn I am not cutting or the bill I am not paying. My life’s lessons are important too. I have recently seen very clearly that if I don’t learn my lesson in one place, it is not going to go away just because I go to another room. Wherever I go, there I am, and there is that damn lesson. Until I learn it, it will pop up over and over again. And it doesn’t have anything to do with anybody else… only me.
In the few days since Erik’s memorial I have walked in a sense of thankfulness and joy for all of my family, my closest friends and the people that I love. These are coincidentally the same people who love, cherish and fill me. I know the “overwhelmingness” of this feeling will fade in a few weeks or days but I really want to let you know that I count you as one of the special people in my life, “my family” and I want you to know that you are important to me. Even though I may not always say it or show it I love and cherish your life and friendship. Without you I would have missed the many experiences we have shared and my life would have been missing the richness you have brought me.
Namaste
"The light in me honors the light in you"

***

Audrey, our thanks for the light in you. -- Andree

Hi again everyone

(Andree here) For all of you - those who could make it and those who couldn't make it happen -- I want you to know that there are photos coming of Erik Rising. And all kinds of good stuff, I hear.

The Rising was well attended, the weather was perfection, and the togetherness was total. If you couldn't make it, we thought of you and spoke of you and felt gratitude in our hearts for the love you sent. And to every single one of you, thank you for standing with us that day, whether in Washougal or across the world.

I do have a little something for you that Lyric did.

See that? There's the official "RIP" marker down there, but he's dressed just like usual (Shoedogs, you will note the prominence of that sartorial feature), and two big smiling beings gently checking him out as he rises. And now the closeup:

Bye, Erik! Have a good trip! See you in a bit now!

erik rising: a special invitation from the family

The Value of Time.
Success of Perseverance.
Dignity of Simplicity.
Worth of Character.
Power of Kindness.
Influence of Example.
Obligation of Duty.
Wisdom of Economy.
Virtue of Practice.
Improvement of Talent.
-- Erik's quote for Purdom Footwear Design

The family of Erik Christian Purdom invites you to join us for “Erik Rising,” an afternoon of sharing tales tall and true, on Saturday September 27th 2008.

We’ll gather together at 1 PM at the Washburn Performing Arts Center, located at the auditorium of Washougal High School, 1201 39th St., Washougal WA 98671.

There will be an audiovisual presentation of Erik through the years, and time to speak of your own memories. Later we’d like you to join us at Erik and Nancy’s house for a private party; directions to house provided at event.

Map from Portland International Airport to the Washburn Performing Arts Center here.

* * *

Coming in from out of town? Marriott SpringHill Suites Vancouver Columbia Tech Center is conveniently located 15 minutes from the house and easily reachable from Portland International Airport. Phone 360-260-1000. Click here.

You may also like these other hotels, located near the airport:
Embassy Suites Portland Airport, 503.460.3000 click here

Country Inn and Suites by Carlson, Portland Airport 888.201.1746 click here

Quality Inn and Suites Airport Convention Center 503.255.1404 click here

For luxury accommodations consider
Skamania Lodge, Skamania WA (1/2 hour east of Washougal in the scenic Columbia Gorge) 800.221.7117 http://www.skamania.com/

Heathman Lodge, Vancouver WA (Located in the center of not very scenic Vancouver, but it's of excellent quality) 888.475.3100 http://www.heathmanlodge.com/

Campsites will be available on Erik and Nancy’s property if you would like to bring your tent or RV.

Please RSVP at erikpurdomproject@hotmail.com or the message service at these phone numbers: 888.904.1221 (toll free) or 360.326.6494.

georgina wrote the nicest thing

(Andree here) Georgina Kramer is Nancy's mom and Erik's mother in law. I had no idea she had written anything into the Oregonian guestbook, and stumbled upon this yesterday:

Erik was taken from us far to soon,our hearts are broken with sadness. He influenced all of us by example, a man of character and kindness, wisdom beyond his years. A great designer was he. Our love for him will live on forever in memories. Words cannot express our loss of our wonderful Erik who we dearly miss. Deepest sympathy to all the Purdom family. We will keep you in our prayers.

Thank you, Georgina, for these lovely words and for everything you did for us.

sean thought you'd like this photo

(Andree here) I like this photo a lot too. It's E and Jaeger at Mogfest 2004.

September 27th, everybody: formal announcement by the end of the weekend.

sheri at swiss army

(Andree here) Hi everyone. Remember those lovely photos I posted a while ago, of good everyday things like boats and trucks and kids and fluffy dogs? Those were Sheri's.

Sheri, I hope you don't mind if I share your email with everyone, because you wrote so well of the sweetness of daily things with my brother along....

* * *
I can not find the words to express how very very sorry we are
but want you to know we thought a lot of Erik.
As you know he was very special to many persons.
He is greatly missed.
It is said time heals all wounds, I disagree. I believe time helps tolerate the wounds.
I am grateful for the time we were able to share with Erik and Nancy.
And have them as our friends.
I sold him his first Pinzgauer,
He and Sean came to Arkansas and drove it all the way back to California.
Erik was the only person I know who could eat more chocolate fudge than me.
Another visit to Ark. Erik Nancy and Lyric. We went to a restaurant for lunch
I never saw anyone order so much food. I thought maybe extra for snacks, or dinner
but I was wrong, there none left for snacks, and we all went out later for dinner.
We later were in Washington. It was a great pleasure to visit our valued friends and
to share vegetables from their beautiful garden Erik had built Nancy.
I never seen anything like it. It was like something you dream or would think to see on tv but not real.
I can imagine all the knowledge and skills he used to build all the ideas he used on the Pinzgauers,
shoes, home, furniture, garden, etc.
I do not think there was anything Erik could not do.
You have our deepest sympathy

Best regards
Sheri and Willy

letter from china

(Andree here) I can't resist sharing with you the note I received from Kevin Kang in Taiwan, who had written the following letter when he learned of E's illness, but didn't send it then. I understand. You'll all appreciate this heartfelt note.
* * *
Hey duo,

How are you doing?

It’s so many times I try to write you an email, but my fingers seemed out of my control. You know, you are the best guy I every met. It’s unbelievable that the greatest man I ever met is a foreigner! And he is such a big guy! Do you know how much I learn from you within working with you? I do like your attitude for life. Work hard, play hard! I still remember we had supper of spicy food in Dongquang. We ate 8 dishes hot and spicy food and had 7 bottles of beer. Of course, I only had one bottles. All people in that restaurant like you because you acted so nature, friendly and nice.

For the work, I will say we are something in common. We always try to dig out something new form some crazy idea but build an easy & no pressure surrounding. I will say if I could work for a boss like you, I would be happy; my wife Nikey would be very happy as well. I mentioned you a lot when we were chatting by phone. Erik, do you know what made me sad since I knew you? Most of people who knew me thought I am a nice guy, but you are better than me.

This is why I can’t accept this happened to you. I doubt the God existence. Take care yourself, man. I will cross my fingers and wish you luck.

Warm regards,

Kevin

from kip and marilyn

(Andree here) I'm a bit tardy publishing this tribute but I'd love for you to read what Kip Baldwin and Marilyn Hillman say about E.

Dreams, ideas, passion, a spirit larger than life. I truly believe ERIK'S existence had already moved beyond this physical world. ERIK hung around with us who are still caught up in this mortal toil, due to the fact he loved us all too much to let go. Infinity said, "ERIK it is time to move on we are in need of your designs".

ERIK is here and everywhere! ERIK is and always will be! And here's to mead and pickled eggs!

All our love,Kip & Marilyn

see e, hear e

(Andree here) Sean found some YouTube of E doing an interview. Wow! What a precious find.


Although it kind of hurts, too, to be honest.

e in the tropics

(Andree here) Sean met up with E and our cousins Adam and Suzanne Moilanen on a trip to Singapore not so long ago. . . although right about now it seems like a century. Anyhow, I thought you all might like them.

I don't even want to start guessing what he's thinking here. Captioning contest anybody?

if you'd like to see it...

(Andree here) E's obituary was published in our Vancouver WA paper, The Columbian, on the 21st. (I was at Mom and Dad's, so haven't blogged as regularly.)

The page is here, if I link correctly(***EDIT: The Columbian changed their page publishing software at August's end, so we are madly trying to find the guestbook. Swell.)

Shortly: Pix from Sean of E enjoying some tropic time in Singapore.

bruce beck says

That Purdom glue is tenacious stuff and Erik applied it liberally. Only erik could take two men about to come to blows and have them drinking beer together within the hour. So as I am sitting there having a beer with the man whose face I wanted to bloody only moments ago a very content Erik sits there sipping a Bodingtons. Proud that he once again was able to control the situation with a healthy dose of that Purdom glue. And I'm just siting there thinking damn he did it to me again!!.

That was Erik's talent of bonding people together. Erik also had a penchant for collecting unique and eccentric people. for different and original perspectives were of great value and entertainment to him. Without Erik's fastidious application of fresh glue we will slowly drift into our individual paths. But I for one can tell you I will carry that glue until the day I die. Erik had many friends but to many Erik was their best friend.

An old memory of baby Lyric reaching up for me to carry her keeps playing in my head and it just tears me up every time.

Beck

from Lesa DeGagne

While I do remember Erik and his countless tools (lol) I also remember Erik being A Walking Thesaurus!
Like A Vocabulary Superhero (better than the PBS "Word Girl"). I love how he speaks.
He masterfully paired his tonal inflections with many equally expressive, animated, facial and physical gestures. Erik was Never A Bore To Listen To!
His voice and vocal inflections were unique. (though I remember hearing Hans speak from another room and w/out seeing him, their voices are similar. Guess he part shares this 'Gift'.) ...
One thing Erik and Nancy used to do when they brainstormed over a new product, or service, was to write a list of words they felt best captured its essence.
I joined in on their doing this on a few occasions. Was like a game.
Below is a list that best captures who Erik was (is)to me!
ERIk PURDOM :
- Multi Talented
- Creative Genius
- Mater Story Teller
- Boundless Energy (This man needed No 'Red Bull')
- Courageous
- Pillar of Strength
- Unpretentious (He liked this term and it suites his well. He wore it well! )
- Unaffected (another one)
- Mechanical Whiz
- 'Jack of All Trades'
- Woodsman/Outdoorsman
- Adventurous Explorer
- Peaceful
- Intuitive/ Insightful (Highly intelligent!)
- Tasteful
- Vocabulary Genius
- Life of any Party
- Adoring, Loving;
* Husband (LOVES his "Nancy Pants" as he often called her)
* Father
* Son
* Brother and
* Friend!!!
- Family Oriented (LOVEs his family and friends!)
- Great at All he did! Even if he did not at first succeed. He always Tried and with Greatness! Okay a word for this!??? I am not the thesaurus he is!...
- DO- er ! A Doer.... A+ for his endless efforts! He always Tried. Therefore never failed ;-0...
- Dependable
- High Spirited (Reason he made an awesome Cheerleader in his sch. days huh! Though he had other motives for cheering on his schools team;) )
- Charming!
- HYSTERICALLY Fun
- Passionate (most everything he did was Heartfelt)
- Thoughtful
- Generous
- Appreciative
- AN AMAZING EXAMPLE TO ALL...
- Greatly Respected. (His opinions and those of Nancy's were (ARE) greatly valued and sought out. Dean's blog posting clearly stated this and deeply moved me to tears! Rang such truth!)
- Trustworthy ...
These Are all Just Words. Erik, the man, is Much Greater Than Any Words Can Express...
Erik profoundly touched our lives. Mine and husband Joel's, over the years.
Blessed to have known him, to call him a friend and so thankful for all the lessons he (and Nancy) taught us.
He will continue to be a great example to us!
His amazing zest for life, passion to show the world to his children. What an Inspiration!
To teach to them see this world as it Really Is. Both, Broken and Beautiful!
He sees with such clarity. - Clairvoyant! and Yet Another word for 'The List'
- Teacher!!! (Have to add the word "Amazing" before "Teacher" To give it more Umph! - AMAZING TEACHER...
While I understand that the end of his suffering is a relief, many hearts ache over his physical departure.
To this- I'll quote "So Long, Farewell"... Till we meet again ;) ('The Sound Of Music')...
My kid, Olivia is dancing to our I Tune's that's blasting some cool Goody By Tunes. "Side to Side", is what Olivia is telling me to do and she's guiding my upper torso to sway, rhythmically. As I type, seated. "Dance!" She says...
I'll add- Yes. You Dance, in celebration of Erik's life while I finish using what words I have in attempt to express how important of a man he is in my life.
I was hopeful Oli would meet the Purdoms one day and that we'd all have a chance to re-connect. While in our new roles as parents. Evolving 'roles'...

THANK YOU ERIK for all the laughter, inspiration, support, and shared visions.
Thank you for being our friend.

Pelsue

(Andree here) As in the one, the only Dave Pelsue, E's oft coworker and constant friend from the world of SoCal shoe design. I promised you I'd post it man, and it's good. Here you all go.

* * *
Beyond my reflex upon hearing the news of his passing, I wanted to share something deeper, to express in some small way, what Erik meant to me. I’m still at a loss for words as he’s been on my mind even more now that he’s gone.

I’ll never forget his introduction after I started at LA Gear almost 17 years ago. As I watched all these strangers stroll in for a big meeting in the main conference room, my head in my hands, elbows on the table… this huge rebel Jeremiah Johnson of a guy with cool glasses, beard and pony tail thrusts out his hand with a smile… “Hello! I’m Erik, you must be one of the new designers we hired” following a brief intro reply, he leans forward and whispers “ You know, I’d watch those elbows, you never know who’s ASS has been there!”

That was the first of many to come over the next 4.5 years there, most spent working directly with him. At one point he was also my boss though that title doesn’t do the business end of the relationship justice. I never worked harder nor did I feel more rewarded. At work or play he was always an awesome friend. Like the multitude of others that caught his sharp wit, deep understanding and insightfulness, I will be forever grateful of the times we shared, sweating, and playing… He was a younger man than I but full of wisdom seemingly far beyond his years. He wasn’t bashful in his optimism with regard to any challenge or obstacle. That’s just one of many gifts be bestowed upon me… He was my mentor to footwear and I do my best to give unto other new designers as he gave to me. E was taken way too soon, but with eternity being a much longer episode than mortal life on Earth, can we really be surprised the team on the other side punched his clock???

Forever yours Erik, signed Blister Gelcoat

erik, listen up

Mom and Dad are talking to you -- sorry to cut in, Adam and Andrew . . .

FAREWELL AND GOD SPEED OUR WONDERFUL ERIK. WHEN WE SEE YOU AGAIN, WE WILL SMILE.....

MOM AND DAD

Good words from good friends

Andree here. I'd like to post a couple of the wonderful things E's friends are sending in as tribute. . . so many, and I will do my best to do you justice. I'll start with Andy (and Amy) Collen:

Erik is a unique spirit that I feel I have captured a small sparkle
within my own spirit.  At this moment I could only wish that I had
more time with him.  However I am a half full kind of person and so was Erik.
I hold a place in my heart for a great fire pit and I will never let that erg go.
Erik to me was a bright shiny object that gave me the power to move on through life.
It is only in the last few months that I have really began to realize how much
someone can influence you.  Erik was and still is a great spirit and
every once in a while I reach into that spirit.
So what little contact we had I must say that I cherish every minute
and will constantly revisit his spirit.  I am not a religious person but I do believe in spirit
and I know that Erik is with us all.  I am thankful for what little time I had with my big buddy.


Dreanna sent along a consoling verse from Mark Strand, Poet Laureate:

A Piece of the Storm
From the shadow of domes in the city of domes,  
A snowflake, a blizzard of one, weightless, entered your room
And made its way to the arm of the chair where you, looking up
From your book, saw it the moment it landed.  That's all
There was to it.  No more than a solemn waking
To brevity, to the lifting and falling away of attention, swiftly,
A time between times, a flowerless funeral.  No more than that
Except for the feeling that this piece of the storm,
Which turned into nothing before your eyes, would come back,
That someone years hence, sitting are you are now, might say:
"It's time.  The air is ready.  The sky has an opening."


And Chris Kuhr wants us to know of the effect E had on him:

I did not know Erik well, but worked with him on a few projects and he
definitely left his mark on me. He was such a positive, intelligent,
humorous, and genuine man. And because of this, I felt like I have known him
for much longer. I know I will miss him and try to keep his memory alive by
following some of the examples he has set in his life in my own. My heart
and prayers go out to his family and friends and hope that he makes as many
friends where ever he is now as he had when he was with us.
 He will truly be missed.

* * *

Yes.  He will that, friends.  Thank you for everything.

Erik was and is

(He's squinting into the sun here.)

Dear folks,

Andree here. All of you, all of us tried so hard, but Erik had other adventures to go after.

Erik left us at 7:22 am yesterday, after a brave fight but a peaceful passing. Nancy was with him, as were Mom and Dad (Terry and Donna); sister Brynn, brothers Sean and Hans, and myself; and Adam Baker, Andy Rotchford, Dean Paris, and Mike McGraw. He was home in Washougal.

These days you don't often get the privilege to send someone you love on their way on their terms. We had the chance to watch his face grow completely peaceful as he lay in bed, and hear birds sing and his hound dogs bark in the blue and golden morning. He's free now. And probably already putting together his next big thing.

Thank you, all of you, for the love, the support, the prayers, the emails. I mean to keep this blog going for a little while yet, so watch this space. It was my honor and privilege to do his for you, and I thank you for the support it has given me particularly.

Hi everybody

(Andree here) Hello all those who love E,
Please forgive me for not posting for so long. We were in a place where we were fighting hard for a couple of victories. Because we are positive folks, we want to dwell on that side of things. Yet the fight has become very intense, and I ask you all for your prayers.
Thank you again for your generous love and care, which we feel so completely in your emails and wonderful photos.

Tent Shirt

(Andree here) Marianne Kay wrote me this morning to send this photo along. Her message was such pure distillation-of-Erik that I must record it in its entirety:

Andree,
This is the tent that Erik built. (Were it not for him, the two people wearing the shirts might have been home in bed instead of selling goods from a tent at 6am on a field far from home. Thanks, Erik. We think.)
Please give him our love.
Marianne & Rick

That's okay, you two - someday he'll build you an even bigger tent. Hah!
He needs to get a little sleep though, first. He's got stuff on his mind. You think?
Will everybody reading this stop for a second, look at that photo of E over on the right there, and send him some slumber?
-- Oh you did? Good, thanks a lot!

Lovely ladies workin' the Shirt

(A here) Rowen and Mia, and then Rowen in what we'd like to think is the latest in hot skatewear (Heelywear??).