In Celebration of

Eric Niskanen

June 7, 1934 -  May 26, 2021

Eric passed away suddenly on May 26, 2021, after many decades of suffering from Parkinson's. Beloved husband of the late Jean ( nee Coulter). Father to Ron (Janet), the late Deborah, the late James (Kim), and Laura McCartney (Steve). Papa to Delina, Mark, Brian, Brandon, Emily, and Corey. Greatpapa to Hailey, Tristyn, and Caiden. Brother to the late Allan, the late Ellen Quinlan, Leonard, the late Peter, Laila Houston, and Johnny.
Special thanks to Christal, his loving PSW for the last 4 years for all the attention and care you gave Eric.
Eric retired from the Ontario Research Foundation at a young 45 years of age, he spent his retirement years at his cottage in Parry Sound and traveling in his RV to the southern states and Mexico in the winter. In his later years at his home in Oakville.
Due to current restrictions, there will be a private family funeral service. If so desired, memorial donations may be made to parkinson.ca.

Guestbook 

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Tony Cristalli (Friend)

Entered May 28, 2021 from Nassau Bahamas

I got to know Eric through Christal all she talked about was the smile she would get from Eric when telling him a joke that was sweet

Allyson Marvin (Friend)

Entered May 28, 2021 from 10 Chatterton court

I was with him in the same long-term home, I was doing my placement I used to play with him a lot, watch TV with him but now it breaks my heart when I got the news from Christal (Psw) that he pass away. I will never forget the day he called my name and ask me to help him. He continuously mention my name that was the day I felt like someone also love me like a father. May his soul Rest In Peace. Revelations 21:4 (he will wipe out every tear from their eyes, and death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore. The former things have passed away.”). I have hope in God that we will all see him One day. My condolences to the family. If wishes were horses then I would’ve wish to see him one more time but is too late. Sleep well Eric till we meet again

The Ellis Family (Trevor, Joanna, Owen and Julia) 

Entered May 28, 2021 from Oakville, Ontario

We were lucky to share Parry Sound cottage time with Papa Eric and Jean when the kids were young and fortunate to have him as a guest in our home many times for holiday celebrations. Always a welcome guest at our table and he always thanked me for our means - even though I probably didn't do it all (thanks Janet and Mom!). I'll get rid of my straws now. You'll be missed by all Eric!

Sandi Hutchison (Cousin)

Entered May 28, 2021 from Toronto

Ron: sending sincere condolences to you and your family. You were a wonderful son taking care of your dad in his later years. RIP Eric!
Sandi & Bill

Karen Ewald (Family friend)

Entered May 28, 2021 from Chatham

Very sorry for your loss Ron. Sounds like your Dad enjoyed his nice long retirement. He was a quiet guy but I thought he was always thoughtful and kind. Thinking of you all. Karen, Dave, Tyler and Justin.

Life Stories 

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Ronald Niskanen (Son)

Entered June 1, 2021

He was a good man, he didn't smoke, he drank less then his brother Len spilled and Len says he didn't spill very much.
My dad was an honest nan who always researched everything to get the best value for his money.
Quite by accident he learned to play the clarinet and saxophone. During summer in high school he would play in a polka band and then was on a record with Freddy Stone and the Moonstones. Later he played the piano. I remember him playing Beethoven and Bach over and over and over again until he could do it perfectly.
Same with building his cottage. Later after moving him I found the plans he made to build the cottage. A sketch for every room and one for every inch of wall including electrical, plumbing and screw placement
Later after my parents divorced we would play tennis and throw the football around. He loved bowling and played volleyball into his 40's
He loved his nature walks at the cottage where he would photograph plants and flowers. He could tell you every bird just by hearing its call.
He would pick blueberries for hours for adding to his cereal and baking pies. He made the best peach pies from the tree beside his house.
Travelling in the winter in his RV was an essential part of his life. So I never saw him much at Christmas but when he was around he enjoyed the Christmas get togethers, singing carols at the Black's and later the Ellis's.
Parkinson's took a large toll on his life. He could no longer make the furniture he loved to make. Like the end tables beside my bed that will last forever.
When he went to assisted living I was lucky enough to find a PSW like Christal to help him deal with his Parkinsons. She would take great care of him and they would have many good times together.
Bye Dad

Photos 

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