Erica Jane Harstad

1966 - 2024

Erica Jane Harstad, 58, of Elkader, daughter of Don and Mary (Niemeyer) Harstad, died December 19, 2024, at Allen Unity Point Hospital in Waterloo, IA, after years of coping with diabetes and renal failure. Erica was born in Los Angeles, CA, on April 2, 1966. Her family moved to Elkader in 1970, where she attended Central Community Schools and graduated in 1983. After further schooling, she worked in telecommunications in Cedar Rapids and Columbus, Ohio. Resettling in Iowa, Erica earned an Associate's Degree in Medical Transcription at Northeast Iowa Community College. She was subsequently employed by Mercy One Genesis Hospital and the Vera French Community Health Center in Davenport. Poor health forced her retirement and prompted a move to Elkader to be near her parents. Erica was an avid reader and writer. She was a fan of Charles Schultz, Walt Kelly, Robert Benchley, Monty Python and the Green Bay Packers, listening to music, completing puzzles and collecting PEZ dispensers were life-long pleasures. She possessed a quick, wry sense of humor that everyone enjoyed. To those closest to her, Erica will be remembered also for her courage and determination in facing her health challenges. The world is a poorer place without her. Memorials may be directed to American Diabetes Association, 169 Newton Road, 4338 Pbdb, Iowa City, Iowa 52242. Visitation was held Saturday, December 28, 2024, at Leonard-Grau Funeral Home in Elkader from 10:00AM until Noon. Inurnment will be held at East Side Cemetery in Elkader at a later date. Leonard-Grau Funeral Home of Elkader is assisting the family.