Erik Jorgensen

Erik Jorgensen, of East Orleans, MA, (formerly of Ridgefield, CT) passed away peacefully at home on August 24, at the age of 87 surrounded by his family. He was born in Esberg, Denmark, where he spent his childhood years. He joined the Danish Army in the early 1950s, where he served as Lieutenant. After graduating from the University of Copenhagen, he came to the United States in 1959 and received his MBA from Dartmouth’s Amos Tuck School of Business Administration.

On May 25, 1963, Erik married the love of his life, Sandra Sue Simpkins, who completed him in so many ways. Together, they raised their three daughters in Ridgefield, CT and he felt forever blessed to have ultimately retired to Cape Cod in 1994. To all those who knew him, Erik’s family was his world. He will forever be remembered for his unconditional love, his big heart, his infectious smile and the way he lit up a room with his presence. Throughout his life, he spent countless hours at pools across the country, proudly watching his girls swim. He loved spending time with family and friends on Nauset Beach. With every Cape Cod visitor, he was known to call and ask if they were “over the bridge yet.” Erik also enjoyed boating on “The Great Dane”, tennis, woodworking, jigsaw puzzles, crossword puzzles and watching his beloved Boston sports teams. He was an avid reader of historical novels and war books and also excelled at bridge where he regularly played with a group of lifelong friends. He treasured the annual family vacations to Bermuda and several trips to visit family in Denmark. Extremely proud of his Danish heritage, Erik loved sharing many traditions and customs with everyone around him. Erik was involved with numerous organizations over the years including Silver Spring Country Club where he served on the Board, Eastward Ho Country Club, Orleans Yacht Club, The Federated Church of Orleans and The Coral Beach Club in Bermuda.

Erik began his business career at Price-Waterhouse as an accountant. He then worked at A.V. Olsen and Eagle Pencil (Berol) before making his final career move to Faber-Castell in 1972. He finished his impressive career there and retired after 22 years as President and CEO.

Erik was predeceased by his parents, Niels Peter and Karen, and his brother Palle. He is survived by his wife Sandra, his three daughters and their families: Jennifer and Jed Hall of Orleans, MA, Jacqueline and Christopher Lang of Ridgefield, CT and Janel and Peter McArdle of Medfield, MA. He is also survived by his seven grandchildren whom he adored and cherished – Colton and Morgen Hall, Karen, Kathryn and Christopher Lang, and Erik and Ayden McArdle. Additionally, he is survived by his Danish relatives: his sister-in-law Putte, his niece and two nephews and their families.

“Skal”, Erik, to a life well lived, rich with tradition and a legacy we will treasure forever!

Special thanks to all of Erik’s dear friends for their love and invaluable support during this time. Due to the pandemic, services will be privately held. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to www.swimacrossamerica.org/goto/ErikJorgensen or you may send a check payable to Swim Across America at 8505 Park Rd. #389, Charlotte, NC, 28210 in Erik’s memory.