Eric Grata Obituary

I am always trying to write about Eric and so many things come to mind that I just can't find a short version to put down.
here I go again.
I have known Eric since he was very young, I saw a lot of changes in his growth to manhood.
he was a bright kid. One year he refresh my memories on fractions!

How can I write in a small space the many years of knowing Eric.
he was a great stepson. When he had a son of his own I would watch Eric play or teach chase something,
that itself was very rewarding.
because you know there was love in what he was showing or teaching Chase.

he took such care and time with Chase. you just know he had a great love for him.

The love Eric had for Mary & Chase can not be denied.
you just had to sit back and watch them as a family to know.

Mary, hang on to you memories of Eric and just keep them alive so that Chase can remember too.

God Bless you and Chase.

love Theresa

It is now spring time and as I think of my family and friends near and afar, it fills me with mixed feelings of joy and sadness. As I remember Eric I'm overcome with emotions of love. I will always love and miss you Eric.

To Mary and Chase I say that I'll always love you both.

Eric sleeps in the arms of Our Father..Keep The Faith Mary,and little Chase..I love You ,both...Aunt Faye

To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.

Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."

It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man."

God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.

When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.

I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.

There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.

If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.

So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.

And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.

Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998-2007

Our thoughts and prayers go out to Eric's family and loved ones on this day of sadness and loss. He will be remembered by so many, for so long. He was a gentle soul and his sudden departure is so hard to come to terms with. Rest in Peace, Eric.

So sorry for your loss. Eric was a very funny and kind person. He will be remembered always. My prayers are with his family.

DEAR MARY & CHASE,
I AM EXTREMELY SORRY ABOUT THE LOSS OF ERIC. I HAVE HAD THE PLEASURE OF WORKING WITH HIM FOR MANY YEARS THRU AMTEC. HE WAS ALWAYS CHEERFUL AND FRIENDLY WHEN I SPOKE WITH HIM. HE WAS SOMEONE I LOOKING FORWARD TO TALKING TO ALMOST DAILY. I KNOW WORDS CANNOT REPLACE YOUR LOSS BUT PLEASE KNOW WHAT A TRULY SPECIAL PERSON ERIC WAS TO MANY PEOPLE.
WITH BEST REGARDS,

Mary and Chase,

My deepest condolences to you both. Eric was a great person who always tried to do his best. He never wanted to disappoint anyone. Eric loved talking about both of you and sharing a new joke that Chase had told him. He will be missed.

Deepest Sympathies

Mary & Chase, We want to express our deepest sympathy for your loss and our loss. He always brought a friendly smile and warmth into our home when he visited. He will be missed.
Love to you both,

Mary, Chase & family
I only knew Eric for a few months. He made my entry into the Amtec Organization smooth and rather painless. He spoke of his family often and with deep love and devotion. I am heartily sorry for your loss and wish to express my deepest sympathy.

Lester and Family,
I am so sorry for your loss my deepest sympathy to you and your family.



Sincerely,
Anna Collins-Cirilo
(Bill Collins Sister)

Offering our deepest condolences during this difficult time.