Erik Ahmed

Erik Mohammed Ahmed, age 54, a 13-year resident of Royal Oak, formerly of Pontiac and West Bloomfield, died August 5, 2009 at Odyssey Hospice in Southfield. He was born December 23, 1954 in Nazaret, Ethiopia. Erik owned Nice and Easy Landscaping in Oakland County. He was a professional soccer player in Egypt, France and Ethiopia, where he played against Pelé. He was an avid cyclist and runner, and loved to travel, especially to the Traverse City area and Mackinac Island. Erik had a love for older cars, especially the 1970 VW mini bus and his Austin mini and fastback. He was also well known at Starbuck's in Royal Oak and West Bloomfield. But most important, he was a loving father. He is survived by his wife, Helene; sons, Calum Ahmed, Alex Kokesh and Palmer Kokesh all of Royal Oak; his daughter, Netsanet Teklu; and grandchildren, Hamerti 2-1/2 years and Katie 3 months. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ali and Medina Ahmed. Visitation will be Friday 4-9 p.m. at Wm. Sullivan & Son Funeral Home, 705 W Eleven Mile Road 4 blks. E of Woodward, Royal Oak. The family will receive friends beginning at 10 a.m. until the time of service 11 a.m. in the chapel at Detroit Memorial Park Cemetery West in Redford. The family would appreciate memorials to Calum Ahmed's college fund. Share your memories at www.sullivanfuneraldirectors.com.