Eric Hudson Obituary

Eric B. Hudson

April 26, 1949 - July 21, 2025

Hilbert, Wisconsin - Eric Hudson, age 76, died peacefully on July 21, 2025, at his home in Hilbert, Wisconsin. Eric was born April 26, 1949, in East St. Louis, Illinois, to the late Keith and Jacqueline Hudson. He was raised in Belleville, Illinois, attended Belleville West High School, and received his mechanical engineering degree from Washington University in St. Louis. He worked as an auto mechanic, beginning a lifelong affinity with engines and design. Then, in a career that produced numerous engine and component designs and 10 patents, Eric worked at McQuay-Norris Piston Ring Manufacturing in St. Louis, Missouri, Tecumseh Manufacturing, Mercury Marine, and Briggs & Stratton in Wisconsin, and Lycoming Aircraft in Pennsylvania. Later, he did design consulting work in semi-retirement. He married Elaine Wolf in 1979, and they had one son, Bill. Elaine died suddenly of a stroke in 2020.

Eric's interests included aviation, racing, history, and music, and he enjoyed playing his acoustic and resonator guitars later in life. He was a lifetime member of the Experimental Aircraft Association, a benefactor member of the National Rifle Association, and an amateur radio operator (call sign K9EBH).

Survivors include his brothers: Mike (Pam) of Washington state, and Kevin (Mary) of Florida; his son: Bill; nieces, nephews and numerous friends.

He was predeceased by his parents and wife, Elanie.

A private burial service will take place at Green Mount Cemetery in Belleville, Illinois.

In lieu of flowers or cards, Eric would be happy if you did a quiet act of kindness for a friend or someone in need, and spare a few minutes to listen to a member of a preceding generation you might find a nugget of helpful information in what they have to say.