Posts to the tribute of Erik G. Hartburg

I remember Erik living in the YMCA dorm for many years. I think he was living there when I started working at the Y in the late 70’s, if not, a few years later. He would stop at the front desk to say hi, coming & going from wherever his adventures took him that day. I often wondered what happened to him after the Y closed the dorm in 2003 or 2004 when the new bldg was built. I’m glad he went on to continue living a meaningful life. Fondly remembered.

Erik and I were able to ‘catch up’ with each other on the bench outside the First Baptist Church office many Sundays. We would enjoy a treat, which Erik coupled with a good cup of coffee. He wasn’t just interested in talking about his week, but always asked about mine. I will miss this thoughtful, humorous and generous brother in Christ. How the angels must be rejoicing at his homegoing!

Erik was in church the Sunday before he passed away. As I usually do I asked him how he was feeling. “Not too good.” That was his usual response. So I asked him, “How was breakfast?” “Pretty good” was his response. “Do you know what else is good Erik? Some day God is going to give you a new body. You will be completely healed. That is why we come to church. To believe and trust in Jesus.”