Boat Poker Run in honor of man killed in industrial accident in Muskogee begins Saturday

A Boat Poker Run is being held this week to commemorate a man who died a month ago in an industrial accident at a factory in Muskogee.

Staff are organizing the event to commemorate the victim and bring the community together.

The poker boat will stop at several locations along the lake, with all proceeds going to the family still struggling with this sudden loss.

“Honestly, every time you saw him, no matter what day it was, he always had a smile on his face,” Shannan Roberts said. “He was always happy to see people. He was just a good person, a decent person.”

Shannan Roberts has only wonderful memories of his colleague and friend Ericson Osazuwa.

Shannan said Ericson died last month in a pipeline accident on the Muskogee Vallourec Star near the port.

“They don’t happen often, but when they do happen, it affects the community,” he said.

Shannan said Ericson had a wonderful wife and family and was the type of guy everyone loved.

He said he felt called to organize something to give back to Ericson’s family.

“We’ll have a poker run on the boat, we’ll have food, music, a live band, a 50/50 raffle and a silent auction,” he said. “It’s going to be a great time out here.”

Shannan said nearly 30 people, including local business owners, colleagues and friends, are helping to run this poker run.

There will be four stops on the water and great prizes.

“All of this goes back directly to family,” Shannan said.

Shannan said he hopes Ericson’s life will never be forgotten and he is grateful to his community.

“You have really put in the effort, it’s impressive,” he said. “It touches your heart.”

Events begin at 11am on Saturday and you can register for the Poker Run at Bear Rocks RV Park.