Eric Edward Haakenson, 53, passed away Aug. 20 in Burns after an extended battle with cancer.  Eric was born Oct. 7, 1964, in Seattle, Wash., to father, Harold Haakenson, and mother, Mary Martin. He grew up in a loving family with a brother and a sister, Darrin and Gail.

Eric graduated from Mount Si High School in 1982 and enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1983 as a radio man aboard the USS England, where he served three years active duty and one year in the U.S. Naval Reserves.  After the Navy, he attended college at Washington State University and graduated in May 1992 with a bachelor’s degree in range management. Shortly after graduation, he relocated to Elko, Nev., where he accepted a position with the Bureau of Land Management. Ten years later, his job took him to Burns, where he enjoyed the small-town lifestyle. Eric’s greatest passion was his family. He was also an avid hunter who loved all things outdoors such as hiking, fishing, and four-wheeling in the mountains near Burns.

Eric is survived by his parents, Harold Haakenson, and Dean and Mary Martin; wife, Lynda Haakenson (Krueger); brother, Darren Martin; sister, Gail (Missy) Peduzzi; three children, Skyler, Trinton, and Trey; as well as three nephews, a niece, and a granddaughter.

Eric requested to be cremated. His ashes will be spread overlooking his favorite camping spot on McBride Creek Ridge.

A celebration of life at Idlewild Campground was held Saturday, Sept. 1.  In lieu of flowers, please send a donation to the CAN Cancer fund at Harney District Hospital.

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