Obituary
Erica Elaine “Cookie” Carlson, a woman who lived life to the fullest, of Cape Coral, FL, formerly of Parksville, NY passed away beautifully in the arms of her daughter while looking into her son’s eyes, assuring both she was present and free all pain and illnesses, she battled her entire life. While her family was not ready for her to leave, comfort is found now that she is at peace. Erica Elaine Taylor came into this world in August 1956, born to Eric B. and Barbara E. (Bowen) Taylor of Parksville, NY.
She had worked for the American Red Cross, the local Salvation Army. She could always be found helping her father at Camp Gan Israel in Parksville, NY. She truly loved helping and serving others. Bringing joy to the world around, was how she lived each day.
Cookie was an extraordinary person, with epilepsy, dementia, suffering 2 strokes, and congestive heart failure. No matter the illness, she woke up every morning with a smile on her face. She focused on what she was able to do and not what her limitations were. Even in the last years with stage 4 dementia she traveled to every place that was meaningful to her and saw her entire family. Having the ability to say goodbye in her own special way. Her family is amazed by the life that she led. She was one to never complain, and always appreciated and showed gratitude for even the smallest gesture of kindness shown to her.
She leaves behind to cherish her memory, her daughter, Veronica Casterline (John DeGraff), and her sons, Larry Casterline, Jr. and Kevin Danzo, her grandchildren, Sebastian, Britany, Jaydnn, Camden, Kaylin, Carter, and one great-granddaughter Madelyn who she was blessed to meet this summer; her siblings, Constance Lescano, Beverly Taylor-Fredenburgh, Judith Barnes, Glenn Taylor, Eric Taylor Jr., also survived by many aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews.
Erica’s family wish to send special thanks to, John DeGraff for being her best friend and trusted “partner in crime” as Cookie referred to him. Josh Evans who cared for her for many years. Her trusted friend Brenda Chammings who could communicate in a special way with Cookie and was often the voice of reason for her. Her Mother, Father and all her siblings who supported and loved her throughout life’s journey.
Cookies family invites those who knew her to remember the life lived in their own way and challenges everyone to live more like Cookie. Thankful for every day and focused on what you can achieve. Her memory will never be forgotten and will always be carried on by her daughter.
4th of July
Stone arch bridge