Obituary of Erin James Staffel

Erin James Staffel, 47 died suddenly on July 1, 2019, at St. Michaels Hospital in Toronto, Ontario.

Erin is survived by his children, Haley Grace Staffel (21), Declan James Staffel (15), and his ex-wife Emilee Holt all of Toronto, his Aunt Mary Staffel, and his father Edward James Staffel both of Santa Fe, New Mexico. He is preceded in death by his mother, Anna Marie Marchiando Staffel of Santa Fe, New Mexico.

Erin was born on August 17, 1971, in Albuquerque, New Mexico. He graduated from the University of New Mexico in 1995 with a degree in Fine Arts. In 2004 he married Emilee and together they had two children, Haley and Declan. Erin’s compassion as a father was deep and seemingly endless. He shared his love of art with his children and showed them what it meant to live a life inspired by creativity. He was incredibly proud of his children and often spent evenings with Emilee fantasizing about what they would be like when they grew up. 

In 2007, Erin moved the family to Toronto to continue his position as a Director of R&D at Feature Creep Technology, where he had worked since 2003. He found a way to connect with his new community through his interest in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and love of fixed gear cycling. He had a great appreciation of graffiti and tattoos, luckily both of which Toronto has an abundance. 

It would be remiss to not acknowledge that Erin struggled with addiction the past few years and in the end, the addiction won. While nothing can replace the years that addiction took, it’s important to remember the years when Erin was a devoted, generous, caring person rich with wit, creativity, knowledge, and so full of heart and soul. 

All are welcome to attend and celebrate Erin's life, with details below. The family would like to thank everyone for their warm thoughts and condolences.

Please join us in celebrating the life of Erin on Wednesday, July 10, 2019 for visiting from 7:30 - 8:15 p.m. at which time a Tribute to Erin will be delivered. All events will take place within the eco Life Celebration Centre at the Main Hall of Beach United Church (140 Wineva Avenue at Queen Street East, Toronto). 

This location is TTC accessible. Complimentary parking is availalbe within the surrounding residential streets, or within the Green P parking on Queen St. E., or the Green P lot directly adjacent to the venue. The main hall is located on the upper level of the building. 

In Erin's memory, please consider making a donation to the Red Door Family Shelter using the link on his homepage.

Please share in memories, photos and sentiments of Erin's life here at his memorial webpage. 

Uniquely entrusted to eco Cremation & Burial Services Inc.

Life Celebrations. Done Differently.