Erika Zonderland
May 22, 1975 - November 8, 2025
In Loving Memory
Erika Zonderland
It is with overwhelming sadness — and deep gratitude for all she brought into our lives — that we announce the sudden passing of Erika Zonderland, aged 50, on November 8, 2025, just outside Mexico City following a tragic skydiving accident.
She is survived by her daughter, Tylyn Lani Brown; her parents, John and Afke Zonderland; her sister, Tara (Ollie) Ferguson; Marika Ward; and her sister, Anna (Scott), with Amelia and Emmett Gorman.
Erika was born on May 22, 1975 in Richmond, BC. After her graduation at A.L.Fortune Secondary School, Erika went on to graduate from Vancouver Film School to receive an Art Direction Certification in Film Production. Her talent as a painter and set designer was extraordinary—truly one of a kind. She worked on many films as a scenic artist, notably: The Predator (2018), The Revenant (2015) and The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford (2007).
She was an accomplished skydiver and BASE jumper who found profound joy in the freedom of these adventures and in the extraordinary people she met along the way. She was the Lead FAA Senior Parachute Rigger United States Army Parachute Team in Fort Bragg from 2001-2005. She packed parachutes for celebrities to aid in military recruiting including former President Bush Senior. She was a courageous soul with a free spirit, embracing life’s wonders with open arms and an open heart.
She possessed a profound perspective on life that touched countless hearts. Her generous, compassionate nature inspired her to earn her death doula certification in 2025.
The last message we received from her was sent from Mexico after a day of BASE jumping telling us she had “the best day of her life.” She lived every moment with joy, courage, and intention. And although her time with us was far too short, knowing she spent her final day doing what she loved most offers us a small ray of light.
Erika’s celebration of life will be held at St. Andrews United Church in Enderby, BC on March 21, 2026 at 1:00 pm. All are welcome.
In lieu of flowers, you may donate to the Erika Zonderland Art Scholarship at A.L.Fortune Secondary School.
Erika was a loving and inspiring mom, a tender and gifted daughter, and a fiercely loyal sister and friend. She will be deeply missed.
Arrangements entrusted to
Cypress Funeral & Cremation Services 250-546-7237
Condolences may be expressed to the family by phone or email through Cypress Funeral & Cremation Services:
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Comments: 5
The tragedy is overwhelming. Why is it that people who cram so much into amazing lives pass so soon? I ache for the Zonderland extended family. She will surely be missed by anyone who knew her. May her adventurous, talented legacy live on through her daughter and the resource that will bear her name. We are thinking of all of you. Ellen
I am so so sorry. Our hearts ache for you and Scott, and your Mom and Dad and everyone else in your family. Our sincerest condolences. Our prayers are with you.
What a beautiful tribute. Thinking so much about all of you 🩷
We became good friends through working together, and later after she moved to Vancouver. I’m going to miss her for a long time to come.
Dear Erika,
You embodied love and compassion for your family, friends, and everyone who was fortunate to be in your presence. You were full of life…
Your legacy will not only be your contribution to the Arts community—it will be these 3 attributes which you shared willingly: love and compassion for others, exuded confidence, and how to assert oneself. Everyone including myself will hold their heads high knowing that you would want us to give back by paying forward the love and kindness you shared with us.
You referred to skydiving and base jumping as “my church”. On November 8th, in Mexico you went to your “church” and this time you didn’t look…back.
I am still reeling and trying to comprehend your passing. Sometimes I pray that we could one last conversation. You had confidence and “street skills” to help me navigate my worries.
You always reassured me that I was loved. You referred to me as family—more importantly your “sister”.
I witnessed the love you shared with Anna and Tara. The of sisterhood that made me happy. Your mom taught you about healthy eating habits. And your dad introduced you to painting—and in turn you became a talented Artist.
Ah yes, Big Cousin T was a vessel for your love and compassion that will live on forever. You told me that you whole heartedly approved of your daughter’s partner because you loved the way he treated her.
Love is the undying bond that will go on forever…
With Love and Compassion,
Susan 🌹
Fly by Celine Dion