Erik “Rick” Rozite

Erik "Rick" Rozite, 61, passed away on April 28, 2025, in Boulder Creek, California. Born on March 3, 1964, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Erik lived a life enriched by music, adventure, and meaningful connections.

A graduate of Whitefish Bay High School, and later attended the Milwaukee School of Engineering (MSOE), blending his technical background with a lifelong passion for music. Erik's creative spirit found its most profound outlet in his band Dirt Rakers. "Americana Seed Company," is the name of the latest album by The Dirt Rakers and "Unity" is the single. Erik said that the point of raking all that dirt was so that we could plant some good seeds. "Unity" is about the kinds of seeds he wanted to plant and nurture through the bands' music.

Beyond music, Erik embraced the outdoors and the joy of discovery. He found peace hiking through nature and loved traveling to new places. Whether writing songs or sharing laughter with friends over a beer, he approached life with warmth, humor, and generosity. Erik was an avid Green Bay Packers fan and enjoyed watching the Packers at Lambeau Field with family and friends.

Erik held deep affection for his community in Boulder Creek and he treasured the friendships he cultivated there. His love for family and friends extended across borders, creating bonds that spanned continents. He married the love of his life in New Orleans on June 8, 2008.

He is survived by his wife, Maria Antonieta Paniagua "Tony"; his father Janis (Leah) Rozite; sister, Inga (Josh) Rozite Escalera; uncle and aunt Agris and Rasma Rozite; cousins Armands Rozite, Amanda Rozite, and Kristine (Alex) Rozite Drake. He was preceded in death by his mother Inara Rozite; grandparents Oskars and Mirdza Bumanis and Alida Rozite; and cousin Roberts Rozite.

A celebration of Erik's life will be held in Boulder Creek, California.

May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him and continue to inspire unity through the music he leaves behind.