Eric was known as an artist, craftsman, hunter, fisherman, lifelong student, philosopher, and daredevil by friends and family. Born December 30, 1982 in Thief River Falls, MN to Lyle Heldt & Melanie “Jeri” (Spalding) Heldt. Died December 29, 2023 in St. Cloud, MN. Survived by his parents & sisters: Andrea (Heldt) & Matt Coates, niece Isla and nephew Rowan Coates; Jennifer (Heldt) Pyper. Preceded in death by his grandparents on both sides and brother-in-law, Andrew Pyper.