Erick John Capps of Sauk Centre slipped his earthly bonds September 6, 2023, at the age of 61 years, 5 months, and 3 days. Erick passed away from a heart-related episode, while doing what he loved to do…camping up north.
His mother was instrumental in starting Camp Hill, north of Sauk Centre. Erick was the first resident. He later moved to Sauk Centre to live on his own with “special helpers” to guide him through his independence, especially Patty Moritz.
Erick was known throughout the Sauk Centre area. He worked at Wacosa, John Wiese Ford, and for the last 18 years at Coborn’s. He also enjoyed working in the pits as a special Demo Derby Helper and cleaning the dairy booth at the Stearns County Fair.
Erick was an avid traveler! Trips to Hawaii (twice), California, Arizona, Texas, New York, Disneyland, Grand Canyon National Park, Washington DC, and Las Vegas to list a few. He also went on two cruises!
Erick loved to camp, walked in the Relay for Life Cancer fundraiser and he participated in the Special Olympics in swimming, golfing, and bowling coach. However, Erick was known to venture on his 3-wheel bike to Osakis, Holdingford, and Melrose. He was seen almost daily sitting on the bench by the Palmer House Hotel.
He was a member of ARC and recently, Sauk Centre Lions Champions.
Erick was born in Minneapolis to Richard and Shirley Capps, who have preceded him in death as well as his older brother David. He leaves behind two sisters, Peggy Flynn and Susan Capps; and his beloved cat, April.
The family requests donations be made to the Melrose/Sauk River Special Olympics Champions Lion’s Club or to the Moritz family for the construction and placement of a new bench outside of the Palmer House.
Some of the “special helpers” in Erick’s life include Patty Moritz, Flo Helmbrecht, Keith Lochen (landlord), Jen Ehnstrom (neighbor), David Rosenberg, Diana Nelson, Wacosa staff, and his Coborn’s family.
Erick was a quiet and gentle soul, who will be greatly missed by all who knew him.
Rest in Peace Sweet Friend!
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