Erik Robert Helgoth
9/7/65 - 8/29/18

Erik Helgoth passed away peacefully at his home in Eureka on August 29 at age 52. He had fought a brave and valiant battle with cancer for three years. He is survived by his loving family: mother and stepfather Dorene and Lou Luzzi, and by many aunts, uncles and cousins. He is also survived by many dear friends, most of them in Humboldt or San Mateo Counties.

Erik graduated from Sequoia High School in Redwood City where he was a proud starter on both football and baseball teams. He earned a Bachelors degree in Business Administration at California Lutheran University in Thousand Oaks. Thereafter he worked in the business field in the Bay Area for some years. He relocated to Humboldt County to pursue a Master’s degree at Humboldt State University in the fields of fisheries and ecology, his lifelong passions.

Erik was devoted for many years to his career at the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. In the Eureka office he was faithful to his duties in Timber Harvest Review, at times playing David to the corporate world’s Goliath. In the Fortuna office he was a concerned Grant Manager for the Fisheries Restoration Grants Program. Erik was steadfast in his dedication to his ecological ideals. He also dearly valued his colleagues who shared his devotion to a worthy cause.

During his lifetime, Erik was a valued friend to many and a cherished family member. He will be remembered for his kindness, loyalty and his exceptional grace.

Memorial services are pending.

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The obituary above was submitted on behalf of Eric Helgoth’s family. The Lost Coast Outpost runs obituaries of Humboldt County residents at no charge. See guidelines here.