Erick Justin Schleuning, 40, of Phoenix, Arizona (formerly of Sturgis, SD), passed away on Friday, July 22, 2022.

Erick was born in Pine Ridge, SD, on August 28, 1981, to Amy Long Soldier and David Black Crow. He was adopted by Robert and Peggy Schleuning, where he joined his siblings, Haley, Joley, Christopher, Quinn, and his twin, Derick. Erick showed his stellar baseball talent throughout many years playing the sport he loved so much and, at the age of 12, he received the 'Tige Cooper Award' for his excellence in sportsmanship. He graduated from Sturgis Brown High School in 2000. From there, Erick joined the Air Force in January 2001, where he served on active duty for 3 ½ years. During his time in the Air Force, he received the Air Force Training Ribbon, the National Defense Service Medal, and the Air Force Good Conduct Medal. Erick loved telling stories of his days working on jets during his time in the service and was very proud of the things he accomplished while serving.

Erick had a love of life like nobody else. Everyone he met was a friend. His infectious laugh and smile would light up any room and when you heard it, you laughed along with him and his stories. He had a love, so pure, for his children, Madison, Nevaeh, and Takoda, which were the light of his life. He loved them more than life itself. Erick loved life; showing empathy and compassion to everyone in his life, especially his family. He loved to travel anywhere the road would take him. He was a free spirit with a heart of gold.

Erick is survived by his father, Robert (Bob) Schleuning; his children, Madison Schleuning, Nevaeh Schleuning, and Takoda Schleuning; his siblings, Haley (Marc) Jolley, Joley, (Jake) Millard, Chris (Leah) Schleuning; his twin brother, Derick Schleuning; brother, Shannon Hansen; along with numerous nieces, nephews, and special friends, Jordan Begay and Erica Hernandez.

Erick is preceded in death by his mother, Peggy Schleuning; and his younger brother, Quinn Schleuning.

The family would like to extend an invitation to Celebrate Erick's life, during a visitation from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m., at Kinkade Funeral Chapel, Sturgis, SD, Thursday, August 25, 2022. A graveside service, with military honors, will take place on Friday, August 26, 2022, 10:00 a.m., at Black Hills National Cemetery, Sturgis, SD.

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