Erik Leitsinger Edwards

Erik Leitsinger Edwards, (formerly Garside), passed away January 1, 2021, at Ascension St. John Hospital & Medical Center in Detroit following his long-fought battle with cancer. He was born July 7, 1990 in Warren, Michigan, son of Hugh and Terri (nee: Miller) Garside.

When he wasn’t fighting for his life and trying to tackle the monsters of cancer, Erik was a vibrant and social man who grabbed as much gusto as he could and truly enjoyed the goodness of life. He possessed a unique and genuine spirit for the outdoors, especially when he was sharing its beauty while camping with family and friends. Getting back to nature had a purity that Erik enjoyed being immersed within, and nothing says fun quite like sitting around the campfire with loved ones,…shooting the bull, cookin’ some weinies, and regaling one another with all kinds of stories and jokes. Erik could often be persuaded to join in on a nature walk or do a little fishing, both of which drew upon his outdoorsy side as well.

Being the “Man’s Man” that he was, Erik was also known for his softer side,…as evidenced by his love for animals. He could have easily been a “Fur Daddy” to most any of his four-legged friends out there, but none-so-much as his treasured cats and dog with whom he shared his home. He never grew tired of coming home to a loving and attentive pet, and the sharing of love was certainly reciprocal. The old adage is surely true that states; “you can tell the character and compassion of a man by how he treats animals,”…and Erik’s character was rife with compassion and care.

Yet for as much as he poured into loving animals, he poured even more so into loving on and caring for his family and friends. From the eldest adult to the smallest child, each were precious in his sight and gave reason to share the goodness that truly is family.

A loving son, brother and friend, Erik leaves us far too soon, but not without imparting the best of himself into the hearts and souls of all whose paths he crossed. He suffered down here, but he suffers no more as he rests safely in the arms of God. He will be missed beyond expression and loved beyond measure.

Erik was the beloved son of Hugh and Terri Garside, and dear brother of Jacqueline Garside.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the D.S. Temrowski & Sons Funeral Home in Warren, Michigan.

Please share memories of Erk at his guest book below.