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Tribute Wall
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Raven van Benthem lit a candle
Saturday, September 14, 2024
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Eric was my statistics tutor in the summer of 2021. There is so much I want to say. I would not be where I am today if not for him, which is the final year of my Master's degree. The last time we talked was in the spring of 2022. I was honoured to give a testimonial to his teaching. He was an amazing person.
I give my condolences to his family.
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Sam Malandrino posted a condolence
Monday, September 9, 2024
"To Bruce, "Roz" and family.
My sincerest condolence to you all.
Its with sadness that this news has reached me ears.
This is an event no parent should ever go through.
As my faith teaches, we cant know the why he was taken, we can know that he is where he needs to be.
My god bless you all, may the holy spirit bring you peace of mind and heart.
Theresa and will keep Eric in our thoughts and prayers.
Condolences From an old neighbor and high school class mate.
Sam Malandrino
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Bruce Gibson lit a candle
Sunday, September 8, 2024
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Ros, Bruce and family,
Please accept our condolences at this most difficult time. This news was devastating to hear and we can’t imagine the
pain and suffering you now must endure. We remember the wonderful times we shared during the UMHA and Jets years and hope these memories help you heal. Rest In Peace Eric.
Janet, Bruce, Shauna and Eric Gibson
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Lee posted a condolence
Wednesday, August 28, 2024
I had the privilege of being in one of Eric's seminars during my second year of university (2021-2022). He was an amazing instructor, so encouraging, and his passion for the work was clear to everyone. Sending my deepest condolences to all his family for the loss of such a wonderful person.
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Christina posted a condolence
Wednesday, August 28, 2024
Eric was such a big presence in our neighbourhood. He will be missed. Our sincere condolences to all of you.
Christina Coulter, Iain Mudd & Boys
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Bruce McIver posted a condolence
Tuesday, August 27, 2024
Sending our most heartfelt sympathy to your family
The McIver family
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Dayle posted a condolence
Wednesday, August 21, 2024
Dearest Ros, Bruce, Geoffrey and the Samtleben family.
Our deepest sympathies on the heartbreaking loss of your wonderful boy Eric. He was a big part of our lives growing up, always ready to laugh and get up to mischief! He grew into an accomplished young man who I am sure will be greatly missed by all who knew him. Our condolences also go out to Julie and her family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all during this difficult time.
Love
Roger, Dayle, Bryce and Rowhan
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Marty Fruchtman and Helen Rentis posted a condolence
Wednesday, August 21, 2024
Helen and I getting the news of Eric's passing earlier this week was just so devastating. We fondly remember watching him on so many occasions when he was very young and just starting his hockey career flying across the ice at Crosby arena. His lifelong friendship with our grandson Connor was so very special and watching them grow through their earliest school years and passionate involvement through so many sports activities always kept us busy attending as many games as we could.
The tributes we have read on this website this week clearly illustrate the tremendous positive influence and impact Eric had on so many others through his generous guidance and support. we offer our most sincere condolences to his family and know your wonderful memories of his life well lived will always be a comfort.
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Greg Trotter posted a condolence
Wednesday, August 21, 2024
I remember the first time I ever met Eric was when he was a rookie on our Trent university hockey team. It was the first practice after tryouts and I was forced to give him a ride there. From there on in we became close friends, teammates and roommates. It didn’t matter if it was video games, workouts, hockey, or any activity Eric was involved in, he had a special gift to push anyone around him to be the best they could be. I had the privilege of spending my university years with him, it’s incomprehensible to think he’s no longer with us. Condolences to Julie and the Samtleben family
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Judith Murray posted a condolence
Tuesday, August 20, 2024
August 20, 2024 Dear Roz, Bruce, Geoff and family, Bertrand and I are deeply saddened to learn of your devastating loss. Vicky and Alan informed us this evening. We send you our profound sympathy - losing Eric is incomprehensible. We are so very sorry. Judith and Bertrand
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Alexandra Watts posted a condolence
Tuesday, August 20, 2024
I met Eric through a tutoring session for my PSYC 3015 course that caused me great struggle throughout my degree. He had mentioned that he coached for the Trent Cross Country team and was open for tryouts soon and encouraged me to join. Through all the time we spent together whether it was him teaching me how to do ANOVAS or giving me tips on my running form, he was an amazing coach. He was a huge mentor to me and his words of encouragement sparked so much hope in me and I will be forever grateful for the short amount of time I had with him. I am blessed to have met such amazing person like Eric. He also made me feel less alone in being neurodivergent and he consistently brought me joy to know that he had accomplished so much through similar struggles. To Julie, you have more deepest condolences, Eric spoke about you in so many beautiful ways and he genuinely adored you. He would mention you every chance you could. I only met you at a dinner after one of our team runs but I can tell that you shared immense amount of love and I am so sorry for your loss. I feel so fortunate to have known Eric and my sincerest apologies to his family and friends. I learned so much from Eric and I will cherish those moments always.
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Joey Di Cienzo posted a condolence
Tuesday, August 20, 2024
I played with Eric at Trent and he really was an incredible person to be around, especially with his guidance and leadership when I was a rookie on the team. Off the ice, he was an amazing and generous person to know, and wouldn't hesitate to help anyone if they needed it. Sending my prayers and thoughts to the family.
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Bill Sullivan posted a condolence
Tuesday, August 20, 2024
Bruce, Ros & Geoffrey
Our condolences, are thoughts are with you & all the family at such a difficult time.
It's been a bit since we have spent time together but all the memories from the boys hockey days & the Parent gatherings have all returned......I can see Eric's little smile like it was yesterday.
Bruce , Ros, we are thinking of you !!
The Sullivan's
Taylor & Bill
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Kymberlie Hennigar posted a condolence
Monday, August 19, 2024
I met Eric when I started running with him in 2021. He had an immeasurable impact on my life over the past 4 years; including encouraging me to pursue an autism diagnosis. Eric and I spent hours running and discussing our neurodivergent perspectives on the world, our relationships with our friends/families/spouses and our experiences growing up. I looked forward to hearing about his life, research, and little family (Julie/Cleo) each week.
Eric was incredibly passionate about his research, and his plans to impact neurodivergent kids through athletics. I saw that impact firsthand when he started coaching my daughter, Rain. Rain was too anxious to participate in group Muay Thai classes, but in a few short months of private training, Eric had built up her confidence. One of my favourite memories is of Rain leaving our house with her arms full of her artwork so she could show it to Eric after their session. She adored him, and he made her feel incredibly special.
Having Eric in my life brought me so much joy and self-awareness. I know and understand myself so much better because of him. I will hold my memories of him, and our runs together close to my heart forever. I can hear his voice coaching me along every time I run.
Even though I had only met Julie briefly, running with Eric gave me a little window into their love story. Julie always felt like a character in a book; someone I grew to love just from hearing about her. Eric shared the big stories; asking his Oma for Julie’s engagement ring and proposing to Julie after struggling in his 100km race. But he also shared the tiny everyday stories; what they were planning for dinner, or how Julie bought these certain donuts he liked at the grocery store. Nothing brought him more joy than seeing her car in the driveway after one of our runs and knowing she was home waiting for him. He lit up when he spoke about Julie - her relationship with Cleo, how endlessly proud of her he was (whether it was her farming, sewing, or when she posted a picture of a bald Barbie doll). Eric talked about how special their relationship was and how she accommodated and understood him in a way no one had.
Julie, Eric loved nothing more than having you waiting for him at the finish line - I’m sure he’ll have the pillows and blankets ready as he waits for you.
My heart aches for Julie, Cleo and the Sambtleben family. I am so deeply sorry for your loss. Eric grew from my coach into an incredible friend. I feel so fortunate for the time I shared with him.
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Matt Romanin posted a condolence
Monday, August 19, 2024
I had the privilege of playing hockey with Eric while attending Trent University. Eric was by far the most passionate person to touch the ice. He put his heart and soul into every game and he never gave anything less than 110 percent. He was a leader and motivator for his teammates. Anytime he stepped on the ice, it was always exciting to watch. Eric will be deeply missed. Sending my deepest condolences to his family.
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Mike posted a condolence
Monday, August 19, 2024
I had the privilege of living with Eric and another friend where we formed a strong bond, we played Trent hockey together and I can also remember holding pads for him to hit when he first started his mma training.
We had grown apart the past few years since we both graduated but I know he will be missed, myself included. My condolences to the family:(
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Connor Simonds posted a condolence
Monday, August 19, 2024
Dear Bruce, Ros, and Geoffrey,
It pains me to write this. Eric and I grew up together, and I loved him as a brother for 25 years. I will never forget his intensity, his laugh, and his courage. Eric’s presence was always a source of strength and inspiration for me and I will miss him dearly. Please know that my thoughts are with you during this incredibly difficult time. I am deeply sorry for your loss.
Connor Simonds
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The Simonds Family posted a condolence
Monday, August 19, 2024
We are so very sad and heartbroken to hear of Eric’s passing. We have such fond memories of Eric growing up; the many play dates, camping with us at Sandbanks, skating on the pond or on our rink, hockey at the arenas. He was always smiling, a happy, funny and very polite young man. We last saw Eric before Covid distorted time when he visited with Cleo, his very loyal dog, the same Eric as a man who we knew and loved as a child.
Eric accomplished much in his short life and your family has very much to be proud of. Losing him is unimaginable and we are so very sorry for your pain. May he rest in peace.
Russ and Elaine Simonds
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Vicky Buchanan posted a condolence
Sunday, August 18, 2024
Our memories of Eric are so very special.
His Batman phase when we would just see the ears of the costume bopping down the fence line. Watching him play goalie at Crosby but more interested in showing off to Grandpa behind the net then the game itself. Harassing his poor Oma when she was watching the boys by turning on the back hose again and again when she had asked both Geoff and Eric to turn it off. Alan did finally intervene but not until we had a good chuckle. Playing light sabres in our basement with Samantha. He always had an eye for the ladies. Sneaking into our house through the garage to get a key when he forgot his. He always put it back after he opened his door. The night we caught him and then realizing he had done it many times before!!
Alex babysat the hockey team when they were in Ottawa for a tournament and she was at Carleton. She found it an interesting experience.
She was upset that Eric surpassed her for title of worst driver in Markham.
There are many other memories but these are the ones that brought a smile before the tears.
He was so full of fun and exuberance and we will miss that so much.
The Buchanan’s
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Drew Colquhoun posted a condolence
Sunday, August 18, 2024
It was was deep sadness that I recently learned of Eric's passing.
I was first introduced to Eric at the Muay Thai gym in Peterborough, and was immediately taken in by his passion and enthusiasm for fitness. Shortly after this meeting, Eric became my trainer and we spent many months training together there before eventually moving on to the Trent University gym. After a brief break, due to injuries and Covid, we began training together again, this time at his home gym. We went on many long runs together where we discussed everything from the Toronto Maple Leafs to the stock market.
I learned about Eric's academic and athletic achievements; his hope to one day work with children; and his desire to combine these interests to specifically help children with ADHD through sports.
I know he was a talented hockey player, an excellent Muay Thai fighter, and a fantastic long distance runner (he often left me panting and unable to speak as I tried to keep up with him).
Eric loved his family, and spoke often of his parents, brother and fiancée Julie. I know he was also crazy about his dog Cleo who would always greet my arrival with loud and wild barking from the front window (she's really a big pussycat he would say)
Eric was an amazing young man and although we had only spoken a couple of times in the past 2 years I recall the 3 years we did train together with such fondness. We trained hard, ( when I was on the exercise bike Eric let me choose the music and he had no idea who Garth Brooks is) but we laughed a lot, and I hope, learned something from each other.
My deepest sympathies to Julie and his family. I cannot begin to imagine the pain you must be feeling.
Although I was twice Eric's age he became my friend and will be deeply missed, God Bless you Eric
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Don and Angela Shiga posted a condolence
Sunday, August 18, 2024
Dear Bruce, Ros and Geoffrey. We are truly heartbroken over Eric’s passing. Words can't express how deeply sorry we are. Please know that we are always here for you and we'll forever cherish our fond memories of Eric as we knew him best; a young fun loving boy with a perpetual smile on his face. Love Don, Angela, Lauren & Brandon.
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Mitchell King posted a condolence
Sunday, August 18, 2024
Lots of amazing memories with Eric growing up playing “A” hockey on the Vaughan Panthers with Bruce as our coach! Eric was so fast and intelligent - we all tried to just keep up! You will be missed my friend. Truly the best defense partner you could have asked for! Thank you for the memories.
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Geoff Crewe posted a condolence
Sunday, August 18, 2024
Dear Bruce and Ros. While I haven't seen you in many years, I have fond memories of you both. I also have a son who turns 33 in a couple of weeks. I can't imagine how broken I would feel if he was no longer with us because he is loved so much. I'm so sorry that you have lost Eric, and at such a young age. Don't hesitate to lean on your family/friends/faith for support through the grieving process ... I'm sure they will be there for you.
Sincerely,
Geoff Crewe
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Ronnie Pulis posted a condolence
Sunday, August 18, 2024
Ros, Bruce, Geoff, Oma and Steve, We have all been heartbroken and devastated since we heard Eric’s passing. It’s hard to find the right words, especially given how much Eric meant to all of us. I remember vividly the day he was born; it feels like just yesterday. Having been a part of your family’s life for over 40 years, his loss feels incredibly profound to me.
Eric was also a part of my life. His presence brought laughter hockey and some comical conversations.
I can recall one particular afternoon when he came to my house selling cutlery. I was going to purchase anything he had to sell and the first thing he asked when he came to my door was “Ronnie can you make me a sandwich” I chuckled and quickly made him a beautiful lunch we sat and chatted.
Watching his hockey career from a little kid to a young adult was so incredible, he was such a gifted hockey player (tough fucker he was) I would not want to mess with him on the ice.
His absence leaves a void. I find it difficult to get him out of my mind. His perseverance and the moments we spent together will always hold a special place in my heart.
Please know that you are not alone during this time. I am here for you and the entire Samtleben family, ready to offer support, comfort, or simply a listening ear whenever you need it. Our shared Family history and the bond we have will always be a source of strength, even in moments of grief.
We are here for you always and forever.
Love the Pulis Family ( Ronnie, Jennifer, Josh and Melissa)
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Gail Grundy posted a condolence
Sunday, August 18, 2024
Ros, Bruce, Geoff, Julie and families I was so sorry to read the passing of dearest Eric. Please accept my condolences. Holding happy, loveable memories close to your heart will provide some comfort to you at times of sorrow.
Gail Grundy
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Dave & Lori Gurney posted a condolence
Sunday, August 18, 2024
Our sincerest condolences to the Samtleben family and Julie on the passing of Eric. May his memory be a blessing to all of you.
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