Eric Stanley Oman

Eric Stanley Oman, 96, a beloved long-time resident of Ironwood, Michigan, passed away peacefully on September 6, 2025, at The Shores of Lake Phalen in Maplewood, Minnesota, surrounded by family. Born the eldest of six children to Stanley and Frances Oman, Eric lived a life rooted in craftsmanship, community, and family.

In July 1955, Eric married Norma Nordberg, and together they built a home and raised a family at Little Girl's Point on the shores of Lake Superior-continuing the Oman legacy in one of Michigan's most scenic corners.

A skilled carpenter, Eric first partnered with his father in business before joining the Gogebic County Road Commission, where he worked until retirement. Whether patching roads in the summer or plowing snow in the early hours of winter, Eric knew every twist and turn of Ironwood Township-mailboxes included, apologies if he clipped yours. He also proudly served in the Michigan National Guard, volunteered as a firefighter, and held the role of treasurer at Immanuel Lutheran Church.

Eric and Norma shared a zest for life, enjoying roller skating, square dancing, cribbage, and dice games with friends and fellow campers. Eric, known affectionately as "Lake Trout," was a passionate fisherman whose inventive shoreline trolling-using a planer board pulled by his ATV-became local legend. One of his prized catches still greets visitors at Little Girl's Point.

In retirement, Eric and Norma explored the country in their motorhome, traveling through and staying in Mississippi, Arkansas, Arizona, and points in between before settling for winters in Camp Verde, Arizona. There, Eric embraced community life with poker nights, pool games, bingo, and the occasional casino visit.

Eric was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Norma, his brother Ray, and sisters Jean and Arlene. He is survived by his sons Eric Jr. and Darrell (Connie), grandsons Alex and Maxwell, sisters Sally Nelson and Diana Oman, and many cherished nieces and nephews.

A joint Celebration of Life for Eric and Norma will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to Immanuel Lutheran Church, E1891 Brace Road, Ironwood, MI, 49938 or the Ironwood Township Fire Department, N10892 Lake Road, Ironwood, MI, 49938.