Eric Eidsness

Eric Eidsness

Eric Ray Eidsness, 37, of Juneau, Alaska, died Saturday, March 8, 2008, in Wasilla, Alaska, surrounded by his family, following a struggle with addiction.

Born February 27, 1971, in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, he moved to Juneau when he was three, and returned to his birthplace as a teen to be graduated from Washington High School.

Mr. Eidsness was married to his high school sweetheart, Jodi Tilden, in 1995.

He later married Jennifer Ellingson, the mother of his son, Tristin. He and his son, whom he considered his "best buddy," were exceptionally close, friends recalled.

Mr. Eidsness, a friendly person with an infectious laugh and contagious smile, worked for many years at Wings of Alaska. He is best known for playing bass guitar in several bands, including "Bad Daddy," and as the popular disc jockey, "Heavy E." Music was his passion in life, friends said.

He enjoyed any activity the outdoors had to offer, including camping, hiking, and his sister's "to-do" list.

Mr. Eidsness is survived by his son, Tristin Eidsness, and Tristin's sister, Madeleina; his mother and stepfather, Denise and Jeff Teal; his father, Tim Eidsness of Kinross; four siblings and their families, Solveig Eidsness and Chris Hamilton, Desiree and Shaun Mc- Curley of Rudyard, Raegan Eidsness, and Brock Eidsness; a nephew, Michael Musielak of Rudyard; a niece, Skylar Eidsness Hamilton; lifelong friend Chuck "Chewy" Kollin, and a large extended family. He made friends for life, family members said, and leaves behind many friends.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Roald and Selma Eidsness.

A celebration of his life was held Saturday, March 15, at 11 a.m. at the Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church in Juneau, followed by a reception.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in care of Solveig Eidsness at the Alaska USA Federal Credit Union, which can be reached at (800) 525-9094.