Eric Niilo Grondahl

Portsmouth - Eric Niilo Grondahl, 83, of Moosup, CT and Norway, ME, died peacefully surrounded by family on May 19, 2025 in Portsmouth, NH. Born on September 21, 1941 to the late Martha and Niilo Grondahl, Eric grew up with his younger sister Julia in the Long Island community of Cedarhurst, NY. The family spent time vacationing in Moosup, which later became their longtime home. A first-generation American, Eric always kept his pride for the United States close while also never losing sight of the Finnish culture which his parents instilled in him. Throughout his life, he made sure everyone in his family remained closely connected to their roots in Finland. Graduating from the prestigious New York University in 1963, Eric’s degree in Civil Engineering launched his successful career in the field. On December 29, 1962, he married his wife Brenda who he shared a marriage of more than 62 years with until his passing. Brenda and Eric raised their children Michael, Marc, and Liisa in Moosup while also establishing roots on North Pond in Norway. Multiple generations of Grondahls lived and thrived between these two important locations for the family. A man of many talents and hobbies, Eric honed his skills in the air as a licensed pilot. His happiest place always was hundreds of feet in the air while at the controls of his plane. While on land, Eric was an expert snowmobiler, golfer, Nordic skier, hunter, fisherman, boater, and ATV rider. He made sure to pass his talents onto friends and younger generations who enjoy the activities as much as he did. If you needed a hand, Eric would give you two. He would always be there for others without hesitation. His care and generosity knew no bounds. This selfless care extended to his love of animals, as he cared for countless cats and dogs through his life. On the weekends, Eric could often be found enjoying motor sports, either in person at a motocross course or stock car track, or on television. When his children and grandchildren competed in racing, baseball, hockey, golf, and dance, Eric could always be seen cheering them on quietly as their biggest fan. Eric is survived by his wife Brenda, sister Julia with her husband Robert, his children Michael with his wife Lisa, Marc, and Liisa with her husband Butch. He is also survived by his grandchildren Eric, Matthew, Luke, Justin, Charles, and Rylee, who all affectionately knew him as “Peep.” Also close to him were his beloved nieces Sara and Abigail, along with his grandson Eric’s girlfriend Katelyn and her son Landon, who was like a great-grandson to him. At home in Connecticut, Eric was a lifetime member of Central Cycle Club and Snake Meadow Club. Both clubs in Plainfield highlighted his love of motocross and the outdoors. A celebration of life will be held for Eric on Wednesday, June 18th at the Black Dog Bar and Grille at 146 Park Road in Putnam, CT from 12 to 4 PM. All are welcome to attend. Kiitos, Peep. You are and forever will be greatly missed.

Eric Niilo Grondahl

September 21, 1941 - May 19, 2025