Erika was born in Duisburg, Hamborn, Germany, and was the daughter of the late Henrich and Maria Kommerdeiner of Frankfurt, Germany. She immigrated to the United States as a war bride in 1948 and was most proud of becoming an American citizen in 1952. She was the widow of the late Charles David Carlson Sr. and was also predeceased by her brothers Helmut, Werner and Siegfried.

She is survived by her children, daughters Marion Louise Carlson of Hendersonville, N.C., and Deborah Ann Carlson of Pawtucket, R.I., her son Charles David Carlson Jr. and his wife Kathy of Falls Church, Va., and her grandson, Charles David Carlson III of Ohio. In addition, she is survived by her sister, Bruenhilde of Ober Schledorn, Germany, her sister-in-law, Senta Kommerdeiner of Germany and her brother-in-law, Richard Carlson of Newton, N.J., numerous nieces and nephews, her friends at the Meeting Place, Tryon, and her beloved cat, Bingo.

No local services are planned, but internment will be at a later date in Avon, Ct. Memorials may be made in her name to Hospice of the Carolina Foothills, 130 Forest Glen Drive, Columbus, N.C. 28722 or to the RBC Bank Rutherfordton Relay for Life, 275 N. Main Street, Rutherfordton, N.C. 28139.

Marion would like to thank the nurses and staff at White Oak Manor, especially Sharon, Debbie, Mary and Heather, for their care and concern and to the staff at Hospice, Chastity, Jennifer and Angela, who made her passing so peaceful, and to Marion&squo;s friends and clients who have kept Erika in their thoughts and prayers as it meant so much to Marion.

Online condolences: www.crowemortuary.com.