Erik John Guran

AKRON, OHIO -- Erik John Guran, age 22, passed away unexpectedly on June 9, 2012.

Graduated 2008 from Firestone High School, Erik was a student leader: senior class president, Madrigal king, prom king, recipient of the Optimist Club Award, a member of the National Honor Society, and a member of Student Council for four years. A gifted singer, Erik performed with the Firestone Madrigals for three years: Men's Chorus and Symphonic Choir for four years. He had a featured role in the school musical his junior year and a lead role his senior. He also played drums, guitar, bass, and sousaphone. Erik attended the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism at Arizona State University and made the Dean's List both semesters. He changed his major to education and transferred to the University of Miami (Ohio) before his sophomore year. In the last year he had returned to his passion for music, teaching himself keyboards, and composing songs with deeply meaningful lyrics.

Two weeks before his death, he proudly served as best man for his older brother, Andrew, at his wedding. Erik was a great-hearted, deeply caring young man; an "old soul" who wanted to make an impact on the world. His charismatic personality, personal charm, and generosity to others left a lasting impression on everyone he encountered. Erik believed his life was an adventure and he enjoyed nothing more than sharing the stories he created both as a raconteur and through his songs. He will be profoundly and deeply missed, but will remain forever loved by his family and friends.

Erik is survived by his parents, Paula Guran and Paul Guran; sister, Karis Guran; brother, Mark Guran and his wife Allyson; brother, Andrew Guran and wife Katie; and brother, Phillip; grandparents, Elmer and Marice Guran; uncles, aunts, cousins and their families; and many, many friends.

Service will be held 11 a.m. SATURDAY at the Billow FAIRLAWN Chapel, 85 N. Miller Rd., with Rev. Jean Hansen officiating. Interment at Rose Hill Burial Park. Calling hours will be at the funeral home FRIDAY from 4 to 8 p.m. The family has requested that those wishing to honor Erik's memory make a donation to Firestone High School Choirs c/o CDTA, and send to Firestone High School, Attn.: Sally Schneider, 333 Rampart Avenue, Akron OH 44313.

(Billow FAIRLAWN Chapel)