Obituary of Erik Kopmanis

Erik Imants Kopmanis was born in Latvia on January 23, 1944. He was one of two children born from the union of Karl and Marta (Jergins) Kopmanis. Erik attended college and graduated with an Associate's Degree. Erik married the love of his life, the former Brenda Bryant. From this union would come the birth of three children. Erik supported his family working as a self-employed Architectural designer for forty years, where he later would retire. Erik was well known for his kind manors and respect for others. He was a quiet man with a great sense of humor. He was laid back and always welcoming to anyone who was around him. He was a person everyone could count on when they needed someone. He enjoyed his time spent with his friends and family. Erik was a former member of the Riverview Yacht Club, loving to be on the lake boating and walleye fishing. He also loved to ride "Harley." He had a passion for wood working, building and designing. He also enjoyed playing the saxophone. Erik received his spiritual nourishment from Trinity Lutheran Church. Erik Imants Kopmanis, age 70, of Erie passed away at his home on Thursday, January 8, 2015. In addition to his loving wife: Brenda, his passing was preceded by both his parents. To cherish his memory Erik leaves his three children: Gale (Robert) Comanescu, Erik R. (Valerie) Kopmanis both of Temperance and Maija (Jason) Mandel of Erie; a brother: John (Sarah) Kopmanis of Monroe; and six grandchildren: Jared Comanescu, Justine Comanescu, Cameron Mandel, Tye Mandel, Joshua DiMasso and Danielle O'Brien. Friends may gather from 2:00pm until 7:30pm on Monday, January 12, 2015 at Merkle Funeral Service, South Monroe 14567 S. Dixie Highway Monroe, Michigan (734) 241-7070. A Memorial Tribute will take place at 7:30pm on Monday, January 12, 2015. Online guests may leave words of inspiration and comfort, share a photo, or make a donation by visiting www.merklefs.com and then selecting the Online Tributes page.