Eric Bjerstedt

Eric Jeffrey “Red” Bjerstedt, a lifelong River Falls resident, died November 7 at his home in rural River Falls surrounded by family and friends after an 18-month battle with brain cancer.  He was 51.

Eric was a devoted family man, auto mechanic, avid outdoorsman, classic car enthusiast, and Green Bay Packer fan.

Eric was born April 15, 1962, one of five children of Richard and Norma (Williams) of River Falls.  He attended River Falls public schools and graduated from River Falls High School in 1980.

Eric, a redhead, was his mother’s “go to kid” whom she said never whined or found no task too daunting.  He grew up working in his father’s auto mechanic shop, “Bob and Dick’s Garage,” along Highway 35 in River Falls.  After his parents retired, Eric opened shop in 1998 at the same location under the name “Red’s Repair” a successful business he ran until weakened by cancer in 2012. “Red”””” had many loyal customers who appreciated his skill and honest dealings.