Erik Setterlind

Erik Setterlind, the beloved leader of the "Setterlind 5," departed this world on December 3, 2023, at the age of 49. He was a devoted husband, loving father, cherished brother, and dear friend.

Born in Escanaba, Michigan, to Robert and Sybil Setterlind, Erik was the proud sixth of seven siblings: Loree Saxby (WI), Lisa Mercier (MA), Todd Mercier (CO), Lynn Arguello (CO), Tracey Mercier (CO), and Kristina Levy (TN). Erik's childhood in Escanaba with his siblings shaped his identity, and he often referred to himself as a "Yooper" and a "Viking," reflecting his pride in his heritage.

Erik lived in Alpharetta, Georgia with his loving wife, Allison McCarthy Setterlind, and their three children, Sophie, Owen, and Anna. Erik was also lucky to have Carolyn (Cha Cha) and Tom Jackson as neighbors, in-laws, and support system. His family was his greatest joy and accomplishment. Erik played the vital role of “family logistics coordinator,” ensuring that the Setterlind 5 always knew where to be and when, with their Dad at the helm.

Erik always cheered for his favorite sports teams, the University of Michigan (Go Blue), the Denver Broncos and Nuggets. However, his favorite role was being a dedicated sports dad, enthusiastically cheering on his children in softball, soccer, basketball, and even Spikeball. On Tuesdays, you could find him on the basketball court himself, competing in the "over 40 league" at the community rec center.

Known for his snarky humor, Erik brought laughter into the lives of those around him. A graduate of Colorado State University with a major in creative writing, Erik's true calling and lifelong passion for writing made him the family proofreader for all school papers. Inspired by Ernest Hemingway, Erik was also a published author and avid reader.

Even with his quiet presence in social settings, Erik always loved to share proudly that he was the 2nd place free throw champion in the state of Michigan in 8th grade. It usually follows the story of how he delivered the newspapers on a bike in 6 foot snow drifts in Escanaba (uphill both ways). In his professional life, Erik managed operations and business development in the financial services sector. His leadership, analytical talent, and loyalty built his team of friends at the office and beyond.

Music was a big part of Erik’s life. He loved classic rock and supporting musicians by seeing live shows with his best friends. A head above those around him, he was always easy to find in a crowd. He knew the words to a thousand 90s songs, and all the moves from Vanilla Ice’s “Ice Ice Baby” music video.

The best chapter of Erik's life began with his love story with Allison, which unfolded at a summer camp in Honesdale, Pennsylvania when they were in college. Their love blossomed, creating a beautiful family filled with happy memories.

His kids often recall a shared funny memory of their dad building an obstacle course in the backyard and then hysterically falling trying to complete it as a demonstration. From his 9th birthday party, Owen loves the memory of Erik dressing up as the mad scientist and wowing the kids at the party with the volcanic eruption experiment. Anna loves the memory of how she would be the princess with her dad as her prince, as they tried to copy the Dancing with the Stars routines in the living room each night. Sophie has always had a deep connection with her dad as his first born. The two of them loved to watch football together, smack talk, and lounge on the couch in their team clothes yelling at the TV. They are all so blessed to have the world's best dad!

Erik's favorite movie, It's a Wonderful Life, resonated deeply with him. As the family gathers every Christmas Eve to watch it together, they will remember the wonderful life Erik provided and know that, with every bell that rings, he is nearby, watching over them.

Erik Setterlind is remembered as a beacon of kindness, generosity, and gentleness, treating all with dignity and respect. He leaves behind a legacy that lights the path for those who knew him. In the hearts of his family, friends, and community, Erik's spirit continues to shine brightly.

Erik’s wishes were to forego a public funeral service. He will be remembered privately by his family in the Colorado sunshine this summer to celebrate what would have been his 50th birthday. A few important ways you can honor Erik is to love your neighbors, seek help for your emotional needs, think of him when you have a great slice of pizza, and root for Michigan to win.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in memory of Erik Setterlind to the account established at Craft Bank to help support Allison and their kids during this difficult time.

Donations can be sent via Venmo @Setterlindfamilydonation OR via checks made out to Peter Jackson 12795 Providence Road Alpharetta, GA 30009