John Erik Mikael Hellström of Ann Arbor, Michigan, age 46, passed away Thursday, February 12, 2026, at Michigan Medicine. He was born September 23, 1979, in Hållnäs, Sweden, the son of Sven Åke and Britta Katarina (Holmström) Hellström.
Erik came to Michigan from Sweden almost 16 years ago for his Post-Doctorate Degree in Mechanical Engineering at the University of Michigan. He loved Michigan so much that he ended up staying and working for Ford Motor Company until a few years ago when he started working at the fabulous EAVX in Ann Arbor.
Erik was an amazing person that everyone loved and respected. He was not only very handsome and good looking but, also had a great sense of humor and was genuinely helpful, kind and friendly. He was highly intelligent and a fast learner. Nothing was impossible or too hard for him to learn or solve. His energy was fast and light. He was always on top of things and liked getting things done. He was organized and thorough at everything he did.
Erik enjoyed carpentry and practiced his craft at high level. Many examples of his work adorn his home, dining and coffee tables, outdoor furniture, lamps and shelves are just a few examples. Erik enjoyed many things including working out, the outdoors, hunting and fishing. He also loved good food, especially a BBQ in the summer with a big steak, cold beer, country music with friends and family. Family was important to Erik, and nothing made him more proud than his two boys, Oscar and Isac. He spent time building, playing and repairing their electronic toys with them. While at the same time inspiring them to explore their own engineering abilities.
Every summer the whole family went back to spend time in Sweden with family and friends and to enjoy the beautiful country. Erik loved exploring Michigan as well, and many long weekend trips were made all over the peninsulas with Mackinac Island being a location the family returned to almost every year. Erik loved the American lifestyle, which includes big cars and trucks, engines, and of course a strong belief in God. He was a member of Peace Lutheran Church in Ann Arbor and took his boys there on Sundays.
Erik is survived by his wife, Gabriella (Källström) Hellström of Ann Arbor; sons, Oscar and Isac; both of his parents; twin sister, Karin, and his brothers Andreas and John and five nieces and nephews and many friends.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, March 7th, 2026, 11a.m (doors open at 10 am) at Peace Lutheran Church in Ann Arbor, with lunch served after the service. Please notify Gabriella if you would like to attend: 734-358-8155 text (or call).
Not expected, but for those who would like to make contributions to his son’s college funds, log into Ugift529.com and use the Ugift codes below:
Oscar: 29Q-S2E
Isac: N3Y-Z0Q
Arrangements were entrusted to Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea.
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