Eric A. Bjorn, 88, of Holyoke, formerly of West Springfield, died Fri., March 24. Eric was born in Springfield to loving parents, the late Theodore O. Bjorn and Sonja L. Sandstrom Bjorn. Eric is survived by his sister, Sonja N. Bjorn Nickerson, (Donald) of Kingston, MA. Eric entered a challenging world as he was developmentally delayed, with mental and behavioral deficits. Nonetheless, he was welcomed into his loving Swedish family, living there for more than 50 years, He loved dressing up, going to church, singing hymns and being with people. Outdoors was special also. You could often find him sitting on his swing. He loved being in the in the woods, swimming, walks in the park. Nothing made him more proud than his Swedish heritage which of course included many homemade goodies. Music was a big part of his life. Eric eventually transitioned as more assistance became available, to being involved with state run programs. After the passing of his parents, he transitioned from his home to group homes operated by the organization known today as Guidewire. There he thrived through programs, activities and the support of caring staff. He was able to continue to do the things that brought him joy, such as listening to his favorite music, taking rides, eating out. Regular trips to visit his sister and her family were always special as well as other short trips. The highlight of travel was a trip to Sweden with staff from the program, where he met other relatives. With Eric’s passing, he also leaves his nephew Timothy Nickerson, Duxbury; nieces Linnea MacTavish, Kingston and Kristina Nickerson, Boston; cousins: Linda Haley, West Springfield, Ron Sandstrom, Coon Rapids, MN, Ruth Kooiman, Edgerton, MN. Carolyn Reeves, Coon Rapids, MN, Carolyn Bjorn Stringham, Ocean Park, ME, and Ove Bjorn, Sweden; 1 great niece, 4 great nephews and many friends and staff of the Guidewire community. A calling hour will be held Friday, March 31st from 10-11 AM followed by a funeral home service at 11 AM at the Byron Keenan Funeral Home and Cremation Tribute Center, 1858 Allen Street, with burial to follow at Oak Grove Cemetery, all in Springfield.