Erin Kluk Obituary

Kluk - Erin Jean, age 18 Andrea Jolene, age 15 Robert 'Rob' John, age 13 On December 27, 2002, suddenly and tragically they were called home to be together with the Lord and other family members who preceded them including cousin Rachel and Grandpa Tony. ERIN was a 2002 Honor Graduate of Forest Lake Area High School and a Freshman at Beloit College of Beloit, WI majoring in Art with interests in Writing and Japanese. ANDREA was a 9th grader at Southwest Junior High of Forest Lake. She was a model student and loved Volleyball, Art and Poety with interest in Law Enforcement and Medicine as a career. ROB was a 7th grader at Southwest Junior High, Forest Lake. He was an A Honor student who loved football and baseball with great interest in Geography, sports cars and birds. Beloved children of Robert 'Bob' and Carolyn Kluk. Also loved and missed by brothers Dan and Brian, sister Leanne; grandparents Howard and Bea Tamminen and Margaret & (Tony recently deceased) Kluk, numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, other relatives and many friends. Public funeral service Tuesday 7 PM at Forest Lake Senior High School (new gym) with visitation beginning at 4 PM to service time. Family and friends funeral service Wednesday, 10:30 AM at Faith Lutheran Church, 886 North Shore Drive, Forest Lake with visitation 1 hour before. Interment 12 Noon Wednesday, Scandinavian Cemetery (public welcome). Memorials to the Kluk Children Scholarship Fund, Main Street Bank, Forest Lake. Arr. by Mattson Funeral Home, 651-464-3556.

Published by Pioneer Press on Dec. 29, 2002.
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Thank you for your kind words and remembrances of Erin and for your well wishes. Life has gone on here but of course never the same without Erin and her sister Andrea and brother Rob. We think about Erin's extreme talent in art and writing. We thank God for the time we had together. We look forward to seeing them again in His eternal kingdom. Time has helped to heal the wounds of their passing. It is our trust in God's goodness and His afterlife that gets us through each day. Thank you again for remembering. God bless you!

Dad & Mom Kluk

Family

July 13, 2023

I'll echo Basil here below. I too think about her often, and about her family. I hope you're well, where you are now. I wish her family happiness.

Steph

June 5, 2023

I come back here every few years or so. Just coming around again and wanted to say hi, since I haven't before. Erin/Alithiel's work still means a lot to me and I still think about it frequently. Even now, several years after reading it for the first time.

I don't really have much else to say. Sorry for any awkwardness. I've experienced a lot of loss throughout my life so my heart goes out to people who walk around with that. Whoever sees this, I hope you're doing as okay as is feasible for you right now. It's alright if you're having a hard time, and it's also alright if you're doing well.

Basil H

Other

January 2, 2023

I would like to echo the comments of those before me. Alithiel's writing and art touched a lot of people. If there is ever anything of hers that her family would like to share with the world, I would be grateful.

Veta

June 2, 2011

miseria

March 24, 2010

Even though it is years after the event I felt I must write a few words of condolences even if they are never read by anyone else. I was reading a story online by Erin and was struck by the sheer talent the author possesed. Of course it was because of this that I then found out about her tragic ending along with her brother and sister. Even though I never met any of them I could tell instantly that they were three very gifted and special people by what was said in this obituary, a statment that is only strengtened by how many complete strangers have taken thier time to share there condolences on this guest book. They truly must have been special people to have touched the lives of so many who they never even knew and I am sure that they shall not be forgotten as long as Erin's amazing art and writing is loved and apreciated by people from all over the world.

Bethan MacDonald

March 1, 2009

I know many years have past, but even so I am deeply saddened by the loss of such a talented writer. She remains an inspiration to myself and many others who knew her only by her stories. I know a loss of this magnitude will be forever hard to bear, but she will live on her work and in our memories.

Lyrica Sojourn

November 14, 2008

I am so sorry to hear about what happened. I have been reading Erin's stories for a while now, she was one of the most talented writers that ever crossed my path. We will miss her and her wonderfull masterpieces.

Eleonor Sviridova

February 22, 2006

I, unfortunatly, just heard of the terrible news. I saw some of Erin's Art this afternoon, after not seeing it for nearly a year. I searched for more art and came upon this distressing news. My heart goes out to her family, for I too know what it's like to lose a loved one in a car accident. The pain never lightens, but you learn to live with it. May she rest in peace.

PanChan (Beth)

March 30, 2004

I...was a fan of Erin's work for a long time. Even though I only knew her through her fanfiction under the name 'Alithiel,' I am deeply saddened. It's not pleasant to wake up and realize that Death is looking over your shoulder, even on the Internet.



I regret that I never once gave her a single thought other than the occasional glance for an update; I never once felt the need to give feedback and only wondered what had happened around six months after the chapters stopped coming. This is a true lesson. I can no longer take those humorous little author quips of 'I'm not dead!' for granted.



I will miss her terribly. That's all I can say - nothing really covers it. Erin, I hope you're happy, wherever you are. My prayers go out to your family.



Farewell. I'll never forget.

Nix

August 24, 2003

Michael Pirkl

July 28, 2003

I am also one of the people that knew Erin through art and fanwork. She has inspired me greaty and touched something deep inside of me with her beautiful work.



My condolences go to everyone who knew Erin, Andrea and Rob,



May they rest in peace

Stephanie Wuyts

July 22, 2003

I feel so humble here, to the point that I feel not worthy of writting here. I don't believe I could say anything to help, but I can hope.

Oh my, I'm a 15 year old female, and I'm afraid I only knew Erin by her stories and an email she sent to me once in regards to it. I'm so sorry from hearing about this... The passing away of Erin upsets me more than when my grandfather died, and to imagine that you are experiencing even worse pain, my sympathy goes out to you, I'm really sorry.

Erin's stories were so good, that even a year after I first came across them, they still often became a topic in my conversations with my closest friend, even more so since Erin's passing. Even in the last email I sent before we discovered Erin's tragic end, I refered to Erin's story as "the God of all stories" and that I checked for updates every time I went online, even after a year of the story's discovery. Really, Erin has so much talent, so much. It would have taken her far. Her story was one of two stories which succeeded in making me cry.

I hope that knowing that there's one more person out there who feels some measure of your pain is comforting somewhat, if there's anything I can do, please do not hesitate. I would love to hear from you.

Kylie Reid

Kylie Reid

March 26, 2003

Once again, I am a person who met Erin through her works online.



I do not know how to express my sorrow at her loss, and I realise that words are very little comfort at such a time. She will be missed, not only by those who knew her in the physical world, but also those of us who knew her and corresponded with her online.



My deepest condolences.

Leyla Kent

February 3, 2003

To all who have written about Erin, Andrea and Rob,

A sincere thank you to all who have kept us in your prayers and offered their sympathies to us. It is this and our faith that helps us to cope with the tragedy of December 27, 2002 that took the lives of Erin, Andrea and Rob. We miss them terribly and are adjusting to life without them. We know it is the same for many of you. We are thankful that we were blessed to have them with us these past years. We have many beautiful memories. If there is anything that we can do to help any of you with their memories or their works of art or stories please let us know. Our prayers go out to each of you as well as we look to God to sustain us in this difficult time.

Bob and Carolyn, Dan, Brian and Leanne Kluk

January 16, 2003

I am also one of the many people who knew Erin through her works, which will continue to inspire us all. My heart goes out to you and your family, and I hope that your daughter's spirit will live on.

Amy Butler

January 13, 2003

I first met Erin as Alithiel, her writings and art an inspiration to myself and many, many others. She was always encouraging, compassionate, and a joy to know. She will be sorely missed. God bless and our thoughts be with you.

Shane



~~

It's all I have to bring to-day,

This, and my heart, and all the fields,

And all the meadows wide.

Be sure you count, should I forget,--

Some one the sun could tell,--

This, and my heart, and all the bees

Which in the clover dwell.

--Emily Dickinson

Shane Ward

January 9, 2003

Three beautiful children, that brought you so much joy. I am a grandmother and saddened by this accident. I can see the pain inside your hearts. I pray that strength from above will bring you the peace that passes all understanding.

Jan Holte

January 8, 2003

Unfortunately, I only knew Erin through her brilliant stories and artwork under the nickname, Alithiel; but she will be very missed. Of all the works that I've seen online, hers was by far the best and my absolute favorites. As an aspiring artist, she was my biggest inspiration and idol. Her death comes as quite a shock as I'm sure it does to all. You and your family will be in my prayers. May Erin and her siblings rest in peace.



Ashley Langager a.k.a. DBZ chick

Ashley Langager

January 5, 2003

Although we do not know you personally, we are good friends with Lenny Wilminko. Our deepest sympathy goes out to your whole family. I just came to this web site to print some of the articles for Lenny and found the guest book section. After reading the all of the entries, it is very obvious that you had some very special children. I know that no words can ease the pain that you are going through right now, but know that you are in our hearts and prayers. There are three special guardian angels in heaven now, smiling down upon you.

Pete & Barbara Stremel

January 5, 2003

We grieve with you. Erin's wonderful talent and warm, vibrant personality brightened the lives of everyone she touched. She is and will be deeply missed.

Joules Taylor

January 5, 2003

I am yet another person who knew your daughter Erin as Alithiel through various mail lists, art postings and fiction sites.



I know it may seem mind-boggling to you, but your daughter touched and still touches thousands of lives every day with her amazing artistic and writing talents. We unite in the mourning of Erin and her two siblings.



Like many in our community, Erin's insightful and emotionally complex prose and beautifully executed artwork captured my imagination, awed me, inspired me and gave me a nudge to take the plunge and test my own creativity. Her exemplary examples encouraged me to try drawing and writing in the same fantasy universe and for that I will be eternally grateful to her.



Please remember the community is here for you, to grieve with you, to celebrate your childrens' lives and to preserve Erin's legacy.



If you need anything, please let us know.



Erin lives on within us, in our hearts, in our souls and in our creative endeavours. We will never forget her.

DMarie Smith

January 4, 2003

My deepest Sympathy. We are family, cousins, in fact, several times removed. It breaks my heart to hear of this tragic accident.

Mary Wilminko Felknor

January 3, 2003

I'm sorry that this had to happen and you will be missed by everybody that heard thanks for being so nice I will miss you

Brandon Weiss

January 2, 2003

I knew Erin very well, we were really good friends. I dont know why the lord has taken you from us so early and there are no words that could describe how sorry I am. I hope you find peace wherever you are now, you'll live on in my heart.

God bless you

Verena Klause

January 2, 2003

I knew Erin by her online name of Alithiel. She was one of the most talented artists and writers I've ever had the privilage of encountering. She will be deeply missed and my sympathy to the family in this time of terrible tragedy. May god be with you and yours whereever they may be.

Marie Strom

January 2, 2003

We lost our son kyle, December 1st,2002 from a tragic car accident. We know your pain all to well. I have you all in my thoughts and prayers. With the faith that our chidren are in a beautiful place(God's Kingdom)

is what allows me to accept their sudden absence from our lives.



Elk River mom

Cheri Foss

January 1, 2003

I knew erin online by her online nickname, but i was lucky to consider her a friend. this news was such a great shock to me that i had to take a few hours to even process it, much less accept it. my deepest sympathies go out to her family and friends.

Nancy Holman

January 1, 2003

I only knew her as Alithiel, but I do know that beautiful art can only come from a beautiful person.

Her gifts will be sorely missed.

Christine C

January 1, 2003

I knew Erin by her online alias 'Alithiel', and had conversed with her several times. Although I never knew her in person, I am deeply touched by her death. She was a superb artist and author, and a very unique person. She, along with her siblings, will be missed dearly by many. My love and condolences to the Kluk family during this hard time.

Michelle Dean

January 1, 2003

Dear Kluk Family,



I am so sorry for the loss of your three precious children. My heart stopped when I heard the news. My children were out, the three of them Christmas shopping at the same time yours were, and are the same age. For a few hours, I thought it may have been them, when I didn't hear from them. They were driving the same kind of car, and when I saw the accident, I could barely breathe.



My heart goes out to you. Though, I felt relieved in that moment, my heart ached for you and for your family and for the pain and loss you were and are experiencing.



I wish there were some comfort I could offer to allay the pain - but there are no words that are enough - I can only say that you have been in my family's hearts and prayers since we heard the news.



God bless, and may you feel His loving arms around you both now and in the future - holding each of you and your precious children.

another Mom

January 1, 2003

Dear Kluk Family,



May God hold all of you in his loving arms and never let go. My heart goes out to you. I buried my own son on December 16, and find comfort in my faith, family, friends, and neighbors. I wish the same comfort for you. You will be in my prayers. God bless you.

Another grieving Mom

December 31, 2002

Erin was one of the most spectacular artists and writers I have ever had the opportunity to see. I did not know her well, but her art has always awed me. I know many of her friends and admirers- and she will leave a gap in their hearts that wil l never be completely healed. I wish I could say more.

Jessica Cooley

December 31, 2002

I knew Erin as the artist 'Alithiel' through several online sites. She was a wonderful artist and had tons, tons of potential. I heard this tragic news through a mutual friend on one of the mailing lists Erin subscribed to, and I was SO glad they added a link to this page - it was such a shock I don't think any of us would have believed it. My thoughts and prayers go out to Erin and her siblings, as well as to the Kluk family.

Lady Macbeth

December 31, 2002

Knowing the Kluk family I know that they will be able to get through this very tough time. I knew Andrea,Erin, and Rob they all attended my church. They were all very involved with the community in so many ways. When I heard the news of the accident I was shocked. I pray that your family is strong and that you can get through this tragic time. God Bless

December 31, 2002

Believe in what you cannot see.

Do not be afraid.

anonymous

December 31, 2002

Our prayers go out to your family. Though we have never met, we grieve with you and share in your loss.

May He keep you and hold you close at this time.

The Petrulo Family

December 31, 2002

I've known Erin since junior high and I share immensely in your loss. She was such a close friend and I will remember fondly all of the fun things I did with her and the rest of our friends over the years. I love her so much and I will miss her spirit, as well as those of Andrea and Rob as well. They were all so special and talented. I send my love to all of your family.

Krista Knutson

December 30, 2002

I have been thinking of you often these past few days. I student taught band at Southwest just a year ago in the fall and remember Andrea as a promising French horn player and thoughtful musician. Although I only knew Andrea, my prayers are with your entire family and all of your children. I know that God will take care of your children until you can be with them again.

Jaime

December 30, 2002

Carolyn, Bob and Family.



My deepest sympathy to you. I was very sad to hear the news of Erin Jean, Andrea and Robert this morning. I can't feel the pain you are feeling. What I can do is pass on what a gentelman said comforted him in losing his son. "God never picks his flowers before they bloom." Erin Jean, Andrea and Robert bloomed early. I didn't know them but, from what I've read and heard, the people they have touched will remember them fondly.



Our Prayers are with you all.



Sincerely,

Rick Taylor, Family and the rest of the Crew at Merrill Manufacturing Corporation.

Rick Taylor

December 30, 2002

We are truly sorry to hear about your loss. Your Mother Bea is my

first cousin, So we are 1st cousins

once removed. We are thinking and

praying for your whole family at

this time of great sorrow.May God

be with you.

Andrea&Donald Anderson

December 30, 2002

My heart stopped for a moment when I first heard this tragic news today. I am a mother and I cannot begin to imagine the pain and suffering you must be experiencing. For reasons that none of us can possibly understand Erin, Andrea, and Rob have been called to take their place with the Lord. May He be your strength and support during this difficult time. My thoughts and prayers will be with you.

Paulette Heuser

December 30, 2002

Although we are strangers, your family has been in my thoughts and prayers since this terrible tragedy and will continue to be. Each time I pass the place of the accident, I say a prayer. Being a parent, I'm not sure how I would cope with the loss. But know that you have many people praying for all of you, including the children you've lost.

Heidi

December 30, 2002

To all of the Kluk family-



I was devastated to hear of the tragic event that took place in your lives, and I am so sorry for your loss. I remember being in bells at Faith and how much fun we all had, and riding the same school bus. Erin, Andrea and Rob will be remembered forever as wonderful and caring people. Being a mother now, I can only imagine the pain of your loss. You have my, and my husband's deepest condolences, and all of you are in our thoughts and prayers.

Abby Rodriguez (formerly Shaw)

December 30, 2002

Although we have never met, tears began to flow when I heard of your very tragic loss. I can't even imagine the shock and grief you must be experiencing. Please know that I have been thinking of your family and praying for all of you and will continue to do so. May God give you strength and peace and may it comfort you to know that your three beautiful loved ones are in His loving arms.

"And I, John, saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven. It was a glorious sight, beautiful as a bride at her wedding. I heard a loud shout from the throne saying, 'Look, the home of God is now among men and he will live with them and they will be his people; yes, God himself will be among them. He will wipe away all tears from their eyes, and there will be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying, nor pain. All of that has gone forever.'" Revelations 21:2-4

December 30, 2002

As a fellow member of Faith Lutheran Church and a fellow parent, you have my deepest sympathy at this very difficult time. My heartfelt prayers are with you and your family.

Cindy Sumption

December 30, 2002

Words cannot express the sorrow we feel for your tragic loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you now and always.



Tom, Gina, Matt, Nick & Jeff Axelsen

Gina Axelsen

December 30, 2002

We did not know your family but my son played football with Rob and they were in Science Class together. May you feel God's presence now in your lives more than ever. Your babies(and siblings) are safe in the loving arms of our dear Lord. May the knowledge that you will one day all be together again grant you some comfort. Our Prayers are with you all!

Brad, Sue, Matt, Mike, Jessie, Kelli, and Tony Berken

December 30, 2002

My thoughts and prayers are with you in this awful time of loss.

Tammy Hammer

December 29, 2002

Though we have never met, I have heard alot about erin through my sister Joy { whom is a friend of hers} My prayers go out to you and your family. I know that our heavenly father will help guide you though this time of sorrow.



God bless

Jake Joslyn

December 29, 2002

I want to give the Kluk family my deepest condolences. Things are real tough right now in your life but,eventually memories will turn your tears into a smile.

I went to FLHS with Erin and had a few art classes with her. She was such a role model. Her art work was truly amazing! She had such a warming attitude that intrigued everyone. Her spirit is still here for us to remember her by. Erin will not be forgotten!

graduate of FLHS w/ Erin

December 29, 2002

Dear Hunkahunka Burninlovin (aka Brian Kluk):



This is John and Jason (your roommates) You were there for us when we needed you. It's our turn to hold you up now. We are there for you if you need anything. We (all of us in Duluth and the l2oNin Warriors) are very sorry for your family's loss. You will be in our thoughts and prayers. We promise to keep you busy washing our dishes ;-) Most of us don't know the right thing to say, but we are willing to listen, and we all care very much.

John Kelcher & Jason Jones

December 29, 2002

I am sorry for your loss and you are in my prayers. I knew Andrea from school and she always had a bubbly personality. I know that everyone at school will miss her and Rob very much.

Alicia Bosman

December 29, 2002

Dear Carolyn, Bob, Dan, Brian and Leanne:

We weep for your loss, remembering Erin, Andrea and Robbie with love. They each had such promising futures, yet had already touched so many lives. Know we are praying for you and your families and that we are here if there is anything we can do.

Love, Lon, Kathy, Matt and Katie

Kathy Rother

December 29, 2002

To the Kluk family,

Even though we have never met my familys thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family, at this very diffucult time. Words can't say enough.You just have to remember all the good time you had with your three beautiful children.And they will be your three guardian angles always watching down on you!! God bless

December 29, 2002

Though we have not known you, our prayers are with you all. Knowing many families in the Hugo area, our prayers immediately went out to all Hugo families upon hearing of this accident from our traveling family.

You are NOT alone; our communities are there with you. They are loaned to us and have returned to our Creator!

Mike/Florence Daninger

December 29, 2002

Celebration Choir from Messiah Lutheran Church in Marquette, MI, sends our heartfelt condolences and prayers for God's comfort and strength for the Kluk and Tamminen families during this very sad time.

Gayle Larson

December 29, 2002

We have never met. My prayers are with your family at this difficult time in your life. Your Christian witness is a strong signal to all that your faith in Christ is your cornerstone.



Ed Burns of Anoka

Edward Burns

December 29, 2002

Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time of great sorrow. May God bless you and keep you and fill you with his peace.

Tracy, Nancy,Nicole,Aimee,Cassandra,Brittany and Jessica Chelmo

December 29, 2002

We feel fortunate that we spent some quality time at the reunion this summer at your house. May your faith keep you strong. You're in our thoughts and prayers. Take care,

Craig and Paula Simi

Craig and Paula Simi

December 29, 2002

My Heart goes out to the Family and Friends of the Kluks, may the love of God sustain you.

Anonymous person

December 29, 2002

MAY GOD BLESS YOUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS.MAY GOD KEEP THE "LIL' ANGELS SAFE" FOREVER.

DENISE STARR

December 29, 2002

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