Obituaries
November 21, 2025
Erik M Giggleman
Erik Martin Giggleman, the son of Craig and Marina Giggleman, was born May 15, 1992 in Denton, Texas. He was killed in combat on November 21, 2025, in Zaporizhia Oblast in Ukraine fighting for democracy and freedom. Erik is survived by his father and numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his mother and his paternal and maternal grandparents.
Erik graduated from King High School in Corpus Christi in 2010. He enlisted in the U.S. Army in October, 2013 and served in the infantry until October, 2021. He rose to the rank of staff Sergeant and served two combat tours in Afghanistan. He was awarded the Combat Infantry Badge, Parachutist Badge, Marksmanship Badge, four Army Commendation Medals (two with combat devices), three Army Achievement Medals (one with combat device), two Army Good Conduct Medals, National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal with bronze service star, NATO Non-article 5 Medal for Operation Resolute Support, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon and NCO Professional Development Ribbon.
Erik volunteered to fight in Ukraine in April, 2022 after the Russians invaded. He initially was part of the International Legion but because of his combat experience he was eventually attached to Ukrainian special forces units and served all over eastern Ukraine. Erik was wounded in September, 2022 in Petropavlivka and again in September, 2024 in Lyptsi in Kharkiv Oblast, and yet continued to go back. Erik knew the risks he faced but after seeing the horrors the Russians were perpetrating in Ukraine he believed it was worth the risk.
Erik was a loved and cherished son, grandson, nephew, cousin and friend. He was a consummate soldier and a fierce warrior. Erik died doing what he did best, fighting for freedom and justice.
In lieu of flowers a donation to honor Erik may be made to:
American Veterans for Ukraine
https://americanveteransforukraine.org/
Condolences
Tina Artemis December 28, 2025
Friend Golden , Colorado
Craig I’m heartbroken for you. I’m sorry I can’t be there. He will be so missed. He was a wonderful person full of love and compassion and believed in everything right. He was a true hero. My prayers are with you and your family. May his memory be eternal. Love you tons my friend. Tina
Donald Lee Huffman January 02, 2026
other CROWLEY , Texas
Expressing deepest appreciation for the US Army Service of SSgt Erik Martin Giggleman for our nation and his service to the nation of Ukraine. Prayers are ascending to heaven for comfort for his family and friends in their untimely loss. May he rest in his new “heavenly deployment” with his Savior and preceding loved ones. Don Huffman, US Army vet (Capt) and Dallas Honor Guard member.
Robyn & Ty Cobb January 05, 2026
Friend Corpus Christi , Texas
Craig – we are praying for comfort for you and that Erik is in the arms of his family in Heaven. Erik was so courageous and served such a righteous cause. It is hard to believe how brave he was as he continued to go back into battle for what he believed in. You truly raised a big-hearted warrior. Keeping you in thoughts and prayers. Love, Robyn & Ty
Mark Worthington January 05, 2026
Friend Lancaster , Massachusetts
Craig, I'm so sorry for your loss; I know Erik meant the world to you. What a brave soul.
Minette and Ron Gall January 05, 2026
Friend Bel Air , Maryland
Craig I am so very heartbroken about Erik. You’ve always spoken of him with such pride and I know that will continue through your grief. I wish I could be with you for the services, I will be sending love and prayers. Take care, my friend. Much Love, Minette and Ron
Nathan Joe Loftice January 06, 2026
Friend Grapevine , Texas
Craig, Marina and Erik are some of the most unique, special, loving, caring, passionate, sincere people I have had the pleasure to meet and spend precious time with in this life on Earth. I am a better person for just being in their presence. Their spirits are a blessing to anyone who has or will ever have the opportunity to be in their presence. Eternal love for the Giggleman family.