Erika Louise Cox of Klamath Falls was an extraordinary individual whose life was tragically cut short due to a ruptured aneurysm on April 27. Born August 26, 1980 in Portland Oregon and her father working with the Forest Service she moved initially to Tillamook until Forest Service requirements necessitated moving her on Lakeview due to its needs.
What were Erika’s academic and athletic achievements?
Erika began her academic journey at Eastern Oregon University where she displayed her athletic prowess through college volleyball. Later, she transferred to Oregon State University and balanced her academics with her sports. Erika earned a Bachelor’s of Science in Business Administration in 2004, proving her academic dedication and versatility.
How did Erika Cox contribute to her community during the summers of college?
Erika spent her summers in college working for the Bureau of Land Management, primarily with wildland fire. She also spent a lot of time at Gerber Guard Station, and Lakeview Helitack. The experiences she gained not only enhanced her life, but also made a significant contribution to her community.
What led Erika to pursue a career in nursing?
Erika was working as a court clerk in Lake County Circuit Court when she made the bold move of changing careers and becoming a nurse. Erika relocated to Klamath where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Oregon Health and Science University – this marked an extraordinary turning point in her life!
What was Erika Cox’s impact as a registered nurse?
Erika’s nursing experience in Klamath has been both extensive and exemplary. She began her nursing career in 2011 in the Sky Lakes Medical Center’s emergency department, where she met Zack, an experienced paramedic. She also worked for the hospital’s flexible team and South Cascade Surgery Center. She moved into radiation oncology after having her son Cody. This allowed her to balance her professional and private life.
How did Erika balance her professional and personal life?
Erika was known as a dedicated nurse who gave her patients the best care. She managed to balance her demanding career and her roles as a loving mother and wife. She was able to work less hours by switching to radiation oncology, which allowed her to spend more quality time with Cody. This demonstrates her dedication to her family.
Who were the significant people in Erika Cox’s life?
Erika’s family was the most important part of her life. She married Zackary in 2015. They welcomed Cody in 2017. Erika is still alive thanks to her husband Zack, son Cody, mother Mary Coon, brother Ace Ariaz, sister Natalie Shields, and Zack’s extended family. She was predeceased by her grandmothers Ellen Wilson, Margaret Coon and her father Doug Coon.
What were Erika’s interests and hobbies?
Erika’s diverse interests and passions reflected her vibrant personality. She loved camping, hiking and sports. She also enjoyed concerts and traveling. Erika, a gardener and flower lover, was also an accomplished seamstress. She made masks for her community during the COVID Crisis. Her compassion was also reflected in her love of animals, particularly her schnoodle Loomis.
How did Erika Cox leave a lasting legacy?
Erika, in a final act, donated her organs including her beloved heart. She gave the gift of her life to others. The selfless act of Erika was a testament to the caring and giving spirit that she possessed, and left a legacy beyond her lifetime.
What are the arrangements for remembering Erika?
Erika Cox’s memorial will take place at a future date, so that those who loved and knew her can celebrate her life. Donations can be made in lieu of flowers to the Cancer Treatment Center of Sky Lakes or Pacific Northwest Transplant Bank. Desert Rose Funeral chapel is responsible for the arrangements.
Erika Louise’s story is a tale of compassion, devotion, and selfless service. Her transformation from a student and athlete into a nurse and loving member of her family is inspiring. Erika’s final act of donation will continue to echo in the community. Her life shows us the impact that kindness, service and love of family and community can have on a person. Erika’s spirit will inspire all who knew her.