Obituaries
Eric Hudson
Apr. 26, 1949 - July 21, 2025 - Hilbert, WI
Eric Hudson
Hilbert WI
Eric Hudson, age 76, died peacefully on July 21, 2025, at his home in Hilbert, Wisconsin. Eric was born April 26, 1949, in East St. Louis, Illinois, to the late Keith and Jacqueline Hudson. He was raised in Belleville, Illinois, attended Belleville West High School, and received his mechanical engineering degree from Washington University in St. Louis. He worked as an auto mechanic, beginning a lifelong affinity with engines and design. Then, in a career that produced numerous engine and component designs and 10 patents, Eric worked at McQuay-Norris Piston Ring Manufacturing in St. Louis, Missouri, Tecumseh Manufacturing, Mercury Marine, and Briggs & Stratton in Wisconsin, and Lycoming Aircraft in Pennsylvania. Later, he did design consulting work in semi-retirement. He married Elaine Wolf in 1979, and they had one son, Bill. Elaine died suddenly of a stroke in 2020.
Eric's interests included aviation, racing, history, and music, and he enjoyed playing his acoustic and resonator guitars later in life. He was a lifetime member of the Experimental Aircraft Association, a benefactor member of the National Rifle Association, and an amateur radio operator (call sign K9EBH).
Survivors include his brothers: Mike (Pam) of Washington state, and Kevin (Mary) of Florida; his son: Bill; nieces, nephews and numerous friends.
He was predeceased by his parents and wife, Elanie.
A private burial service will take place at Green Mount Cemetery in Belleville, Illinois.
In lieu of flowers or cards, Eric would be happy if you did a quiet act of kindness for a friend or someone in need, and spare a few minutes to listen to a member of a preceding generation – you might find a nugget of helpful information in what they have to say.
Condolences
Just saw today of the passing of your dad. I am so sorry Bill for your loss. Just visited your Moms grave on Sunday. Nov 30 2025.
Judy Juengel (Friend of Eric and Elaine ) 2025-12-02 17:09:45
Bill, I am so sorry to hear about your Dad. He was always so kind and thoughtful. He loved to stop over when my son and his friends were playing baseball or football together by my mom's and chat about the game and give them pointers. They really enjoyed that. I hope you find peace and comfort knowing he's with your mom again. We were very lucky to have all of you in our lives. My sincere condolences, Stephanie
Stephanie Westbrook (Neighbor/Friend) 2025-07-30 18:14:32
Dear Bill, I am saddened to learn of the loss of your dad Eric. Please know that our hearts go out to you at this most difficult time. Eric was my friend and engineering colleague whom I’ve known for 47 years. We worked together on many engine-related projects during our careers. Eric’s thorough knowledge of mechanical engineering, his keen interest in internal combustion engines and his fun-loving personality, made working with him a real joy. He was a true “kindred spirit” and I will miss him. Rest in Peace my dear friend.
David Kirk (Friend and Colleague) 2025-07-29 11:14:23
Dear Bill, I am saddened to learn of the loss of your dad Eric. Please know that our hearts go out to you at this most difficult time. Eric was my friend and engineering colleague whom I’ve known for 47 years. We worked together on many engine-related projects during our careers. Eric’s thorough knowledge of mechanical engineering, his keen interest in internal combustion engines and his fun-loving personality, made working with him a real joy. He was a true “kindred spirit” and I will miss him. Rest in Peace my dear friend.
David Kirk (Friend and Colleague) 2025-07-29 10:01:39
Bill I am so saddened to learn of Eric’s death. He was such a warm and charming man. We didn’t see each other a lot but I always looked forward to our get togethers. He will be missed.
Janet Ruh (Smith) (Cousin) 2025-07-28 20:56:53
I was lucky to have had dinner with Eric on Sunday evening. He was as sharp, kind, and thoughtful as ever. The world has lost a wonderful mind. He is now home with Elaine in heaven.
Jennifer Miller (Friend and Colleague) 2025-07-28 14:59:34
Bill, You have our sympathy. I loved running into your dad and talking engines. Sorry to hear of his passing.
Randy and Ann Lamers (Friend) 2025-07-28 06:16:48
Hi Bill. I haven’t seen you in a long time, but your dad kept me updated on your life. He and I always had great discussions, and I will miss my yearly appointments with him. May your great memories of him give you comfort and peace.
Cheryl Roers (Optometrist ) 2025-07-28 05:01:10
Bill, I'm so sorry to hear about the loss of your dad. He, and your mom, were such wonderful people and great neighbors. My condolences.
Dan Seidl (Neighbor) 2025-07-28 04:18:44
Bill, we are so saddened by the loss of your dad. He was just a great guy, and we loved to visit with him. He will truly be missed in the neighborhood and the community. May you find peace knowing that your mom and him are back together. You will continue to be in our thoughts and prayers.
Joe and Jane Bauer (Neighbors/friends) 2025-07-27 18:56:09
Bill, I only knew your father for three years through a chance encounter at the Neighborhood Pub and Grill. It didn't take long to establish a friendship with an especially strong common ground, Aviation and the EAA. We had been working on a new engine concept together and I will cherish the conversations and email exchanges we had regarding it and other common interests! My wife and I will remember him for the rest of our lives!
David Juckem (friend) 2025-07-27 18:03:52
Bill, We didn’t really know your Dad too well, but knew your Mom, and she was a great person, I’m sure your Dad was the same! We haven’t seen you for a long time, I hope you are doing well, and I’m sure you’re accomplishing great things! You have our sincere sympathy! Take care!
Joe & Sandy Schumacher (Friend) 2025-07-27 16:27:31
Mr and Mrs Hudson were the most kind and loving being people we have ever meet. Mr Hudson loved to stop over and just talk about the old times and the things he loved. We are truly grateful we got to be their neighbors and friends for the last 10 yrs. We are sorry for your loss bill and they will truly be missed.
Ryan and shari (Neighbor) 2025-07-27 16:25:35
Eric was an amazing neighbor. Spent a lot of time at their house as a child. He was be missed. Condolences to the family.
Jennifer VanderSande (Neighbor ) 2025-07-27 15:42:37
What a kind sole. Not sure who is going to keep the cook hydrated at Neighborhood now. thanks for the beers Eric. Always appreciated a smiling face during the fish fry rush. Sympathy to the family.
Denise Woelfel (Friend) 2025-07-27 13:05:20
Mr. Hudson was a wonderful neighbor. I really enjoyed getting to know him the last couple years. He was very charming and had a pure soul. I'm glad life blessed me with the opportunity to meet him and hear some stories of the very interesting things he has accomplished. Im glad I was able to share some dinners, laughs, and work on his cars with him. I will truly miss his company and it will be hard for a bit. I am greatly sorry for your loss Bill, but just know he was very proud of you and he is with your mother smiling down on you.
Kane (Neighbor) 2025-07-26 23:37:31
Submit Your Condolences
