Erika Louise Cox of Klamath Falls was an extraordinary individual whose remarkable life was tragically cut short due to a ruptured brain aneurysm on April 29. Originally born in Portland on August 26, 1981 and then shifting due to her father’s Forest Service job duties to Tillamook where she resided until eventually moving due to Forest Service requirements in Lakeview; there she blossomed as both athlete and scholar eventually graduating Lakeview High School with honors in 1999.
What Were Erika’s Academic and Athletic Achievements?
Erika’s academic journey began at Eastern Oregon University, where she showcased her athletic prowess by playing college volleyball. She later transferred to Oregon State University, balancing her academic pursuits with her athletic endeavors. Erika graduated in 2004 with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, demonstrating her academic diligence and versatility.
How Did Erika Cox Contribute to the Community During Her College Summers?
During her college summers, Erika worked for the Bureau of Land Management in wildland fire, spending significant time at Gerber Guard Station and with Lakeview Helitack. These experiences not only enriched her life but also contributed significantly to her community and the environment.
What Led Erika to a Career in Nursing?
After working at Lake County Circuit Court for some time, Erika decided to change careers and enter nursing. This led her to Klamath where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree at Oregon Health and Science University – something which defined much of Erika’s life journey.
What Was Erika Cox’s Impact as a Registered Nurse?
Erika’s nursing career in Klamath was both vast and exemplary. Beginning in 2011, she worked in the emergency department of Sky Lakes Medical Center, where she met her husband, Zack, a skilled paramedic. Her nursing career also included working for the hospital’s flex team and South Cascade Surgery Center. After having her son, Cody, she moved to radiation oncology, balancing her professional and personal life.
How Did Erika Balance Her Professional and Personal Life?
Erika was known for her dedication as a nurse, ensuring the utmost care for her patients. She balanced her demanding career with her role as a loving wife and mother. Her transition to radiation oncology allowed her to enjoy shorter workdays, enabling her to spend more time with her son, Cody, exemplifying her commitment to her family.
Who Were the Significant People in Erika Cox’s Life?
Erika’s life was enriched by her beloved family. She married Zackary Cox in 2015, and together they welcomed their son, Cody, in 2017. Erika is survived by her husband, Zack; son, Cody; mother, Mary Coon; brother, Ace Ariaz; sister, Natalie Shields; and Zack’s family. She was preceded in death by her grandmothers Ellen Wilson and Margaret Coon, and her father, Doug Coon.
What Were Erika’s Interests and Hobbies?
Erika’s vibrant personality was reflected in her diverse interests and hobbies. She enjoyed camping, hiking, sports, concerts, and traveling. A lover of flowers and gardening, Erika was also a talented seamstress, contributing to her community by making masks during the COVID crisis. Her love for animals, especially her schnoodle, Loomis, was another facet of her compassionate nature.
How Did Erika Cox Leave a Lasting Legacy?
In a final act of generosity, Erika donated her organs, including her cherished heart, giving the gift of life to others. This selfless act was a testament to her caring and giving spirit, leaving a lasting legacy that extends beyond her life.
What Are the Arrangements for Remembering Erika?
A memorial for Erika Cox will be held at a later time, allowing those who knew and loved her to celebrate her life and contributions. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Cancer Treatment Center of Sky Lakes, Pacific Northwest Transplant Bank, or Klamath County Fire District 1 Foundation. Desert Rose Funeral Chapel is in charge of the arrangements.
Erika Louise Cox’s life story is one of compassion, dedication, and selfless service. Her journey from an accomplished student and athlete to a devoted nurse and loving family member is an inspiration. Erika’s legacy, marked by her final act of organ donation, will continue to resonate within the community and beyond. Her life reminds us of the profound impact one individual can have through acts of kindness, dedication to service, and love for family and community. Erika will be dearly missed, but her spirit will continue to inspire those who knew her.
