Eric M. Tyson, 69 of Ellinwood, logged his last mile on Monday, Jan. 8, 2024, peacefully at Kansas Heart Hospital.
He was born on Jan. 7, 1955, to Dr. Samuel and Mary Lou Tyson. Eric graduated from Ellinwood High School Class of 1973. Eric married Bonita “Bonnie” Tomberlin on Nov. 26, 1977, in Ellinwood at St. Joseph Catholic Church. Eric and Bonnie lived in Otis for 19 years before moving back to Ellinwood. Before starting his truck driving career he had many jobs. He was most fond of being part owner of Western Music and sharing stories of JukeBox rentals. In 1993 Eric received his CDL and began traveling from Coast to Coast. He worked for Arrow Trucking, shifted gears hauling campers for King of the Road Russell, then back to 18 wheels, hauling Helium for BOC Gasses Otis, and finally becoming a Owner Operator and hauling groceries for Dillons.
Eric enjoyed people and never knew a stranger. He was just ornery enough to get under your skin or you knew you had a buddy for life. He loved his family, friends, sports, and politics. Eric has many friends across the USA and has a heart of gold. He is loved by many, forgotten by none and he will live in our hearts forever as he drives the highway in the sky!
“Welcoming me with open arms to the Lord on the day of my passing is my handsome baby boy, Mark, my wife, Bonnie, my parents, Sam and Mary LouTyson, Sister Barbara Sunley, In Laws CJ, Lorraine, and Helen Mae Tomberlin, and Nephew Alex Salazar.”
Survivors include Daughter Nora (Andrew) Tyson, Brother-In-Law Ronald (Glenda) Sunley Nieces and Nephews Ronni Sue (Steve) Church, Shayla & Shania Church, Chonita (Philip) Nigus, Ethan Nigus, and Kristin (John) Menkveld, Abi & Elliana Menkveld. Brother-In-Law William (Bill) (Jane) Tomberlin, Nieces and Nephew Tammy (Eric) Fumagalli, AJ Salazar, Tiffany Tomberlin and TJ (Troy) Tomberlin.
Rosary Service will be held Tuesday, Jan. 30, 2024, at 7 p.m. at St. Joseph Church, in Ellinwood. Interment in Lakin-Comanche Cemetery in Ellinwood at a later date. Memorials are suggested towards the Mark Holtom Scholarship at the American Legion in Ellinwood in care of Minnis Chapel, PO Box 246, Ellinwood, KS 67526.