Erika Christine Hovland-Bahij, 52, of Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania, died June 7, 2025, surrounded by her loving family and friends.

Born on July 24, 1972 to Keith and Karen (Newell) Hovland, Erika lived a life that was a testament to kindness, curiosity, her faith and a deep commitment to those she loved.

Erika grew up in St. Anthony Park, where she attended SAP Elementary and Murray Middle School. She was a member of SAP Lutheran Church, where she was confirmed.

Erika graduated from Central High School in 1990. She earned a bachelor’s degree in economics at the University of Minnesota, where she served a six-month internship with U.S. Congressman Martin Sabo in Washington, D.C.

Erika earned her MBA with honors from Temple University, where she later returned to teach as an adjunct professor. She also became a certified forest therapy guide, sharing her love of nature and mindfulness with others.

Erika was married to Abdelaziz Bahij and was a devoted and nurturing mother to Matsson and to Abdel’s son, Alex Bahij, whose lives she enriched with her warmth, wisdom and unwavering support.

Erika was a marketing director at GSK Pharmaceutical and a vice-president at Tri-State Imaging. Afterwards, she founded her own consulting firm, Iolite Global, and launched Rose & Redwood, a nonprofit organization devoted to teaching leadership skills to children.

Erika found joy in the outdoors, hiking in the forests and in tending her garden. She was an avid reader, a gifted writer, a creative cook and a world traveler who embraced new cultures and experiences.

Above all, Erika treasured time spent with her family and friends, whose lives are forever touched by her compassion, humor and grace. She is deeply missed by family and friends.

Erika is survived by her parents, husband, Abdelaziz, children Matsson and Alex, brother Matt and a wide circle of cherished friends.

Memorial services were held in both Wayne, Pennsylvania, and at SAP Lutheran Church. Memorials may be directed to the fund for Matsson’s education. Please send contributions to Erika’s parents, named above.