Travis Gary Telkamp

Travis Gary Telkamp passed on peacefully at Abbott Northwestern Hospital on Friday, February 21, surrounded by family, less than two months after his sarcoma diagnosis.
Travis was born on May 3, 1977, to Gary and Ruby (Johnson) Telkamp in Brookings, SD. He spent his childhood on the family farm where he experienced the simple pleasures of growing up in a time filled with adventure, imagination, and family. Summers were spent outside with his cousin, Lanita, and his little brother, TC. Together they played endless games of cops and robbers and explored the old farm buildings, despite being repeatedly warned about the ever-present risk of stepping on a nail. They played Atari, Nintendo, and the latest board games his mom was always eager to play with them.
One of the greatest blessings of Travis's childhood was having his Grandma Telkamp right across the driveway. A trip to Grandma's house always meant good food, helping with gardening or projects, or getting schooled in cards and board games.
Travis began working at Hy-Vee in high school, where fate brought him together with Erika Ellefson. He was just 18 when he caught Erika's 22-year-old eye with his impressive strength and agility while slinging gallons of milk. Travis was drawn to Erika's charm and the allure of an older woman. Their connection grew as Travis started attending Erika's many house parties, and before long, they fell in love. They eloped in Hot Springs, SD, with Erika's sister, Molly, as their witness - waiting a few months before breaking the news to their parents.
Erika and Travis moved to Sioux Falls, where they lived while Travis finished his degree at USD. They later settled in the Twin Cities, renting in Minnetonka before buying their first and only house in Richfield. Travis built a successful career, spending nearly two decades in the mortgage industry before transitioning to software sales.
For over 20 years, Erika and Travis enjoyed a life of adventure as a dual-income, no-kid couple - traveling, dining at incredible restaurants, and doting on their beloved dogs. But in time, they felt ready to add a new kind of joy to their lives. On June 1, 2018, they welcomed Ellison Lula into the world. From the moment she was born, Travis was an incredible daddy. She was the light of his life, and nothing brought him more happiness than making her laugh and soaking up every snuggle. In 2022, they sold their house and moved to an apartment in NE Minneapolis, where they enjoyed city living, a yard-work-free lifestyle, and spending every summer day at the pool with Ellison.
Though he left this world too soon, his love, kindness, and humor live on in Ellison. His legacy is carried forward in the beautiful daughter he adored, and in the countless cherished memories he created with those who loved him.
Among those who will miss his kind, generous, and loving spirit are his wife, Erika and sweet daughter, Ellison; his parents, Gary and Ruby; his brother, TC; his best friend, Trent; and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, friends, and coworkers. We can no longer hold him in our arms, but we will carry him in our hearts forever.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to the non-profit of your choice. Any memorials received will be given to Rein in Sarcoma in Travis's memory.