Erik Karlsson family

Erik Karlsson is a Swedish professional hockey player who plays defense for the Pittsburgh Penguins in the NHL. Born May 31, 1990, he was drafted 15th overall by the Ottawa Senators in 2008 and spent nine seasons with them before playing for the San Jose Sharks. Karlsson has won the James Norris Trophy as the NHL's best defenseman three times in 2012, 2015, and 2023.

Karlsson started his professional career with Frölunda HC in Sweden, debuting in March 2008. That season, he scored a memorable game-winning goal in overtime, helping his team secure a playoff spot. He also played a key role in Frölunda’s junior team, winning the Swedish Junior Championship. In the 2008 NHL Draft, Karlsson was selected 15th overall by the Ottawa Senators, with his selection announced by fellow Swede Daniel Alfredsson. Before joining the NHL, Karlsson continued to grow as a player in Sweden's top league.

Erik Karlsson parents

Erik Karlsson was born to Ullla-Karin Karlsson and Jonas Karlsson in Landsbro, Sweden, a retro and remote village in southern Sweden with a population of just over 1,600.

Erik’s dad Jonas Karlsson worked at the local lumber mill driving forklifts per The Athletics. His mom, meanwhile, took care of the family, ensuring Erik and his younger brother Pelle Karlsson had a happy and active childhood. There wasn’t much to do in Landsbro, so Erik and his friends kept playing outside. They played soccer, tennis, and hockey, went swimming in the lake during the summer, and skied in the winter.

Hockey was a big part of Erik’s life growing up. The local hockey arena, built by the people in the village in 1969, was next to Erik’s school. It was a warm and welcoming place where Erik and his friends could skate whenever they wanted. They would play hockey between classes, after school, and on weekends. The arena staff encouraged them and sometimes even made the ice ready for their games. Erik’s parents often brought snacks for him and his friends at the rink.

In this small village, Erik had the freedom to be creative and play as much as he wanted. Landsbro might have been tiny, but it gave Erik everything he needed to grow into one of the best hockey players of his generation.

Erik Karlsson siblings

Pelle Karlsson was born on February 12, 1992, in Sweden. He is also involved in ice hockey, playing as a defenseman. He stands 6 feet tall and weighs 183 pounds, playing with a left-handed shot, as per Eliteprospects. Pelle started his hockey journey with Boro-Vetlanda HC, a youth team where he developed his skills.

Pelle comes from a well-known hockey family. His brother, Erik Karlsson, is one of the top NHL defensemen, famous for his scoring and leadership on the ice. Their father Jonas Karlsson, played a big role in introducing hockey to the family. Pelle Karlsson also has other family members, like his uncle Tomas Nord and cousins Jonas and Anders Nord, who share a connection to hockey.

While Pelle hasn’t reached the NHL, he’s tasted success in Sweden, including winning the TV-Pucken Gold Medal. He’s a dedicated player who carries on the Karlsson family’s strong hockey tradition with pride.

Erik Karlsson wife

Erik Karlsson is married to Melinda Karlsson. The couple faced a heartbreaking tragedy in 2018 when their unborn son, Axel, passed away just weeks before his due date. Erik and Melinda shared their grief publicly, expressing their love for Axel and the hope of reuniting with him one day as per People. Melinda Karlsson has been a significant source of support for her husband throughout his career.

Erik Karlsson kids

The Karlsson couple have two kids. In 2019, they welcomed a baby boy and later a daughter, bringing new joy to their family. They frequently express gratitude for the support of fans and the hockey community, who stood by them during their most challenging times.