On the afternoon of September 8th, Eric Von made his transition in to eternal life. The community knew Eric as an acclaimed talk show host and political commentator, but we know him as husband, father, brother, friend – a man with a heart of gold. His significant contributions to this community and the world will leave an indelible mark that can never be erased.
Eric was a wonderful friend and mentor to many. As a trusted advisor and leader, he held a remarkable talent for bringing people together. His sharpness, wit, intellect and political astuteness was unmatched.
We are deeply saddened by the loss of Eric, but take great comfort in and extend our heartfelt appreciation to the many from the greater Milwaukee area and nation for the outpouring of love, remembrances and support offered to our family.
Eric’s wife, Faithe Colas, daughters Erica Boardley and Paige Colas, and extended family ask for your continued prayers during this difficult time. Final arrangements are pending.
About Eric Von
Eric Von was host of “The Eric Von Show” on 860 WNOV since April, 2015 bringing engaging conversations to listeners daily from 7:00 – 9:00am. He was a regular panelist on Wisconsin Public Television’s, “Interchange,” a groundbreaking public affairs program and co-hosted “Black Nouveau” which airs on the same network. From 1998 through 2000, Von was a special assignment reporter and a co-host of “It’s Your Vote,” a weekly political affairs show which featured candidate forums, debates and voter education information on Milwaukee’s ABC network affiliate, WISN Channel 12. In 2003, as campaign co-director, Von used his political acumen to help lead Tom Barrett’s successful bid for Mayor of Milwaukee.
Von was one of the most sought after opinion leaders, sharing his insights as a panelist and moderator on political and socio-economic issues. He served as managing partner of the public relations firm, Von Communications and founder and publisher of Brain Brawn & Body, a health and wellness website committed to improving the health of African American men and their families.
- Community celebration of life planned for veteran journalist Eric Von - September 12, 2016
- Family Statement on the passing of veteran journalist Eric Von - September 9, 2016
Eric you will be missed the Milwaukee Community.
Eric and I worked the door at Christopher’s for the Milwaukee Urban League Guild and 1290 Scholarship party. He and I would discuss the topic of his show that morning. Rest in Peace my friend!
Eric was an elagent speaker, even on his last day. I was at the Citizen Action ‘Outsourced WI’ event and even had a short conversation with him. He was energized and looked forward to positive changes for Milwaukee and the state. Eric will be greatly missed, let his spirit carry us forward.
Ann that was Earl Ingram Eric was not at that event.
Faithe I know what you are going through. your situation and mine with my brother Harry are similar. The Lord and the prayers and the help of all your FRIENDS will help you get through this. You have the KEMP Family’s Love and Prayers to help you along the way !!
Eric will be missed and I learned a lot from him on the radio. I always liked his man show Friday because it was a relaxed show between male friends. Eric and his men friends enjoyed laughing and talking about topics. He will be missed. My prayers are for his wife, children, family, friends and (us) the community.
RIH Buddy, you will be missed and Im sadden your voice is silenced. Your wit, fast paced comebacks and mentoring will be missed but not forgotten. Your community thanks you and we black men that you touched will do our best to keep your legacy stead-fast. HOTEP Eric!!
I spoke with Eric in 1996 regarding an issues with a police sergeant and an officer he was so engaging and concerned during that conversation Mr. Von told me he was leaving the Milwaukee area for other Horizons for his journey and was sure he would one day return and as soon as he did I made it my mission to reach out we laughed and re-minced about my unfortunate incident that plague Black and Brown people throughout this Country I told him all of the things I have been involved in and that I wanted to be a guest on his show he said NO problem as the called ended I felt a sense of calm knowing one of Milwaukee great son’s were back HOME to guide us with other citizens to greatness in which we were destined for Thank you Eric Von and I would like too thank his wife and children for allowing him to grace Milwaukee with his wisdom and grace God Bless you all
I met Eric Von when we served together on the Wheaton-Franciscan Patient & Family Advisory Council. There was a connection: I had interviewed his wife Faithe for Sherman Park Today about her role on the Sherman Park Community Association Board; he knew my daughter Renee because of some shared community interests/endeavors. At that first meeting and in subsequent meetings, it became clearly evident that here was an extraordinary individual — a listener, a man of conviction, a caring individual, a calm presence. His death prompts the questions, “Why God? And why now?” There is no answer to these questions; there is only a sense of gratitude that such a man graced this world.
My prayers are with the family during this difficult time. Eric was and in many ways still is a man of distinction and will truly be missed. We remembered how loving and caring Eric was when my mother was in the hospital many years ago, Eric came to visit the family, hot breakfast in hand. We were truly touched. My dad will miss listening to his radio show as he tuned in every morning. May God strengthen you, Faith and the rest of the family. Keep looking up for encouragement. Proverbs, 3:5-6. May God continue to bless you and your family.
Warmest, The Edwards and Gaston Family.