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Eric Steely Obituary
This obituary was originally published in the Buffalo News.
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March 29, 2014
Today got awake thinking something was missing..yes, me and writing you especially on the 15th. Have been really trying hard to become independent with myself after the accident..think need help from my angels. We did have our sambuca to you and remind you how much we miss and think of you so many times. Please know all that we feel and continue knowing you are with us in spirit and mind. luv u much Mom
Shirley Napoli
March 23, 2013
Once again this computer fouled me up on the 15th which made it 4 years since hearing your hardy laugh and great hugs. Beverly and I once again hit the Sambuca to you. We love you so very much..Mom and Sister Beverly
March 16, 2012
Yesterday your sister and I had a rememberance for you..first starting at Gator Joes and Shock Top..later that night we celebrated with you with Sambuca..all the time remembering you and how much we loved you..your laugh, sense of humor and just your loving ways..oh what we would give to be able to hear all of it. Time has not made that hole in our hearts heal...we continue to miss you terribly..much love Mom
October 22, 2011
Happy Birthday..would much rather sing it to you just to hear you groan..cannot believe you are older than I am...(another groan) Just know you are still so very much loved and missed..have the Sambuca ready for when Bev calls me...to you..Mom
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September 6, 2011
Seems like its been so long since contacting you..so much has happened that you would be so proud of; speaking of your adult children. Rich is now working towards a goal, Thalia has started her sophmore year in college and Robert is trying to get his life in order working two jobs. You are still very much a part of their lives and would be so proud of some of their decisions. Just wanted to contact with you today...happy thoughts and much love Mom
June 11, 2011
Guess the question today is or maybe the answer is that you have been in my thoughts so very much today...as stated before you are so very close every day and missed so very much..just know how much you would enjoy this hot, hot weather..only happy thoughts to get me thru this..luv u Mom
April 22, 2011
today is one of those "memory" days when thoughts go back years ago..you were part of my wedding day to Dominic. can you imagine that was 16 years ago and now both of you are my angels..missed and still loved so very much..Mom
March 15, 2011
Can't believe it's been two years already although in retrospect it seems like forever. I think about you often "E" and keep your family in my thoughts and prayers. Miss you tons buddy...
March 15, 2011
Another yesr has gone by.. still not able to get my head around the past two years and all that has happened without you being here physically...you have been religated as one of my angels that has been called upon many times to sit on someones shoulder. The hole in my heart is still there, think of you every day..and love and miss you so very much Mom
October 22, 2010
Hello again Steely Family.
Thank you for keeping Eric's Guest Book open. I wanted to share something with you on HIS special day...Eric and I had this thing about age...in his hearty laugh he ALWAYS used to call me "OLD" when in fact we were the same age, just shy of three months...big deal...but of course he'd rub it in. I used to tell him watch out...that one day he'd be older than me...but unfortunately that didn't happen. TODAY I am wishing HIM a Very Happy 50th Birthday and wishing EACH of YOU strength, peace and comfort. The "missing him" NEVER stops and my heartfelt thoughts and prayers are with ALL of YOU ALWAYS!!
October 22, 2010
Today is that BIG day that was to be song many times (can just picture you and your groaning) Happy 50th..no way possible to forget this day and not think of you..trying to keep happy memories. Just know you are and were so loved and missed so very much. Laughter still lingers..luv u much Mom
July 11, 2010
here I am again...you have been on my mind so much recently..think getting pics of Thalia's graduation and prom started the thinking process. You would be so proud of her, she has become quite a beautiful young lady..hope all her dreams come easily for her...same goes for Rich who has started on his program..Robert is still a work in progress..same goes for me...still miss your loving ways..somedays are better than others..memories are flooding back especially this time of the year. You have left a big hole which is difficult to fill...love you always. M
March 18, 2010
Well its that time of year that I am going back to Buffalo from Charlotte for a visit with my in-laws. I have dreaded this trip because it will be the first time I will be at Mr. Bills without you there. Well atleast there physically. I really miss all of the great times and fellowship that we had at Mr. Bills and the Klondike. Walking into Mr. Bills and not seeing you behind the bar will be very sad for me but I will overcome the saddness with gods help and drink and visit with old friends in your honor. When I think of you these four words come to mind.....Energetic
Respectful
Intelligent
Charming
Your friend forever,
Tim
P.S. I am still working on that book report.....
March 17, 2010
A year has passed with reliving a year ago still fresh in our minds and hearts. Whoever wrote on the 15th, thanks for your thoughts..kind words never hurt..to us, he was a very bright light whose laughter can still be heard..today makes me think of years past when he would tell me about the green beer and his green fingers. So with the sad remembering is also the funny moments. AND no he will NEVER be forgotten. Mom
March 15, 2010
Dear Steely Family.
I look at Eric's entry from time to time...on his birthday, the holidays, days in between and now on his one year anniversary which is so hard to believe it's been a year already. He lives within many, many hearts that he's touched throughout his 48 short years. I'm sure I'm not alone in saying continued thoughts and prayers are with all of you. I know this because when I run into people that knew Eric, you feel his spirit through our hugs of consolement for one another or sharing a chuckle in remembering his hearty laugh or something he said or did. We were graced with his presence and are priviledged to be among many who carry him with us through countless memories. My heart still breaks for each of you but hopefully the hurt will lessen and be somewhat of a comfort to you knowing he will never be forgotten.
February 7, 2010
it has been a week of memories...a year ago you visited Bev and I here in
Florida. A good and fun time was had as we so enjoyed our time with you introducing you to a few of our favorite places to eat..mussels at Harry's to Gator Tale at Gator Joes...how we so enjoyed your enjoying the food. Everytime we go there we think of the good time we had. We were so blessed that you had the opportunity to visit. What we would give to be able to relive it with you again. But since that is not possible, we will live with our memories and the love that was shared with us. sadly missed Mom
January 14, 2010
me again...just had to write to let you know how much I enjoyed visiting with Rich and Stacee. He is really a chip off the old block...memories just kept popping up for all of us, to his looks, personality and just his sense of family and love..you would be so proud of him...of course you are now front and center with memories and love for you. Mom
December 25, 2009
Blessings of this day to you. Memories of Christmas's past are just running through my head today. You so loved everything about this day...know that Richard, Robert and Thalia are also holding to their memories. Please know you will always be in our thoughts and prayers..can still hear your laughter at so many things, plus your HI when we began to talk on the phone. more memories...love Mom
October 22, 2009
October 22..today is your day. While I cannot sing to you (and aren't you glad) HAPPY BIRTHDAY..I smile while thinking of all your groans while singing, but what I would give just to hear that. Another memory...but the missing still exists. You were so loved...Mom
Shirl
August 23, 2009
Eric, Six months have passed since hearing your laugh and enjoying our time together..so much has happened since then. You are in our thoughts every day that passes..you were so loved and admired by so many..Memories are just that..memories..much love Mom
June 4, 2009
Eric, time has not lessen the longing to hear your voice and hearty laugh. You are missed by many friends and family. Love Mom
and fami;y
Susan Nichols
April 12, 2009
Oh Eric, I am certain you will be missed by all who knew you. You were my brothers friend who always seemed larger then life smiling and laughing your way through life. I can still remember you halping me move into my dorm room at Canisius. You were checking out all the women:) You were a big brother to me and kind enough to share your mother when I was far away from home. I will always remember you with a smile since that is how I always saw you. Love to all! Susan
Elaine Bogar
April 12, 2009
We were so sorry to hear the news and want to extend our sympathies to the Steely family. It was nice talking to Shirley and reconnecting with her after so long. When I look back, I remember you swinging happily on the swing set beside the house when you returned from Sweden. You were such a happy little boy. I also remember the trip to your wedding and what a good time we all had together. Say hello to Marsh and Jeff for me. I miss you all! Love.....Elaine
TeriLyn Nordeli
April 8, 2009
Uncle Eric, you were the best! I miss you so much, we all do. You have no idea how your passing has affected everyone around you, your family, and especially your sister - my mother. I wish you were here to tell her everything will be all right. I wish the good didn't die young. We were supposed to have so many more Florida memories! So many more sunburns and stories to share! I'm so thankful that God allowed us all to spend the first week of February together this year. That was so special. Even though you wouldn't want us to be sad or cry, it is one of the hardest things not to do. I know that you understand though. You always had a big heart, a big laugh, and a big hairy chest! You will always be my Uncle Hairy! Don't you ever forget it! I love you, your sister loves you, everyone loves you! We all miss you dearly.
April 4, 2009
You are in my thoughts and prayers continously. Love you so much Mom
George J. Metz Jr.
March 27, 2009
I was stunned to hear the news of Eric's passing. It is our loss-all that knew him. I knew him for the past twelve years.
Eric: I never knew your family - Robert - Richard - Thalia but they will be in my prayers. When I went to Buffalo to see family and friends, and went to Mr. Bill's on Friday nights, you always had a friendly smile. I will never forget when I ordered a drink and I thanked you and you always said "No --THANK YOU". You will truly be missed. Thanks for the warm memories and smile.
Rick and Emily Hyburg
March 22, 2009
Eric was one of those people that had an infectious smile and attitude. He taught me so much...about life in general and I don't think he knew he was teaching it! He will be missed for sure. I hope Robert, Richard, Thalia and Beth can find peace through their memories. Eric, you will be missed. I will see you again one day. Keep it flowing up there. I am sure you have already served my dad a cold one!! RIP old friend...thanks for everything!!!!
Alyssa Moffat
March 21, 2009
My heart goes out to your family. I am so sorry for your loss. Your family is in my thoughts and prayers.
Thalia, if you need anything...don't hesitate to ask.
Sharon & Joe Andrews
March 21, 2009
We were deeply saddened to hear of Eric's passing. You couldn't help but be happy when you heard his infectious laugh fill the room.
We are so sorry for your loss and the loss of a good friend to many.
John Male
March 21, 2009
I was so saddened to learn of Eric's death. My condolences to Beth, Robert, Richard and Thalia.
I met Eric almost 20 years ago while working at the Eagle House. He was a tremendous hospitality professional, mentor and friend.
The hospitality skills that I learned from Eric served me well in some of the top restaurants in New York and San Francisco, and allowed me to pay my way through college and graduate school. Every time someone said "you're just so good at this job" I knew I had Eric to thank.
Although we didn't stay in close touch for the past few years, he always did and always will have a special place in my heart.
Roxie Harbison
March 20, 2009
I can't believe I am writing this..."Institutions" like Eric make us the people we are, he touched everyone he met. Eric met you once and always remembered your name and drink of choice. He told good jokes, appreciated the subtleties of life and his happy demeanor washed over everyone. There is nothing like the feeling you got when he greeted you at the bar. Thanks for the warm memories and the good pour. God Bless your family Eric.
Diane Jones
March 20, 2009
For Eric and his family:
After recieving the shocking news, I am only able to assess thoughts regarding Eric, whom I have known for 15 years. He always was smiling even when he had problems and he made me laugh when I had problems. He listened attentively and gave good feedback. I was only mad at him once, but we mended those differences. He was a truly sweet person who cared and loved other people. Every one that knows him will miss him. He was the kind of person that everyone needs to have a friendship with. It is our loss on earth, but Heaven's gain. You are in my thoughts and I will miss you very much, Eric.
Tom Lesser
March 19, 2009
Eric....I now know who will be serving me my Labatt's in heaven when I get there! You were a great friend and I will truly miss you. The only thing that made going back to Buffalo easy was knowing that on Friday night I would be going to Mr. Bills and hanging out with you and closing the place. We will meet again someday and talk all about my brothers book report. Good bye for now and know that I will never forget the times we had at the Klondike and Mr. Bills..
Kathy Silver (Martin)
March 19, 2009
Each time I try to do this, I stumble on the fact that I am even doing it- I can't believe I will never see you again. What an amazing human being you were, and how thankful we all should be for knowing you- it was truly an honor. You were the beacon of lightheartedness that so many sought and depended on for different reasons...always a friend who could turn a bad day around, or lend a compassionate ear- in between the quick one-liners that kept us all coming back for more! Bless you and your family through this difficult time. To your kids and family: be proud of the man that touched so many lives- even if he (or you) never knew how much...thank you, Eric (no, no, THANK YOU!)
Dan & Lyn Barone
March 19, 2009
Eric; So many laughs & so many fun memories from Fridays at the Klondike to Saturdays at Mr. Bills. You truly will me missed by so many. Our hearts go out to your family at this difficult time.
Angel Luke
March 19, 2009
There really are no words to describe the sorrow we all feel. You were definitely one of a kind!!! I will really miss you. My prayers go out to your family. Thank you for everything Peanut.
Brandon Wiseman
March 19, 2009
eric had an admirable persona that could put a smile on your face with flawless consistency. respected and cherished by all who knew him, eric perfected the balance between wit and charm. eric, thank you for showing us the benefits of being in good company.
Jim Castiglia
March 19, 2009
I cannot express how much you touched my life.The summer of 1999 is when i fist walked into Mr Bills even when i was on the road or moved it didn't matter when i walked back you where there knew what to poor me every time. I will miss him greatly.
My thoughts are with your family, co workers, and friends. As you always said i know every one is thinking it "NO NO THANK YOU!!!"
Liz & Tony Hernandez
March 19, 2009
We are deeply saddened about Eric. He was one of a kind, always a pleasure to see & converse with at Mr. Bills. His sence of humor was unmatchable, I always told him he missed his calling as a stand up comedian! No matter how busy he would be working, he always made everyone feel special. His zest for life was contagious. Eric, you will truely be missed when I go to Mr. Bills. I pray the Lord will comfort your family at this very sad time in their lives~Liz & Tony Hernandez
Josette Saia
March 19, 2009
Eric,
You were a great person. I don't think we ever saw you without a smile on your face. Your laughter was contagious and we will miss that when we go to Mr. Bill's. Thank you for the memories you helped create for Bill and I. Our thoughts and prayers go out to your family. We pray that God's grace and happy memories will help them through this difficult time.
Love, Bill and Josette
Michael Marple
March 19, 2009
This is tragic news, I can't express how deeply hurt of the loss of Eric, I send out my prayers to the family. Eric: Thank you so much for being Eric. The minute I walked into Mr. Bills 9 years ago on Wednesday before Bowling, I met a great bartender and a great friend who made me laugh ! I knew I had to come every Wednesday to see Eric. Over the years you introduced me to so many wonderful people, who I consider friends. Thank you for being a part of our lives, my Wednesday will never be the same you will be truely missed, God Bless You Eric, I know someone will be laughing in Heaven !
Vinny Castrogiovanni
March 19, 2009
eric was truly a great person who made people laugh and lifted our spirits. Always in our hearts
Amanda Stachura
March 18, 2009
I still cant believe that Eric is gone. He was a wonderful man and has always put a smile on my face whenever walking in to Mr.Bills. He will truely be missed.. he has touched some many peoples lives.. my thoughts go out to his family in this time of sadness.. we will miss you Eric..
Jeff & Judy Leidolph
March 18, 2009
Eric: Words cannot express how much we will miss you. The minute we walked into Mr. Bills 11 years ago we met a great bartender and a friend.Over the years you introduced us to many people and we all became one big family. Thank you for being a part of our lives, our nights out will never be the same. God bless you and your family.
Kaitlyn Wauhkonen
March 18, 2009
I still can't believe the tragic news of this sweet man. My heart and my prayers go out to you, Eric, and your family. Your humor and your smile brought a grin to my face everyday at work. You were one of the main reasons as to why I loved going in the first place.
You touched the hearts of many and your presence still lingers in our souls.
I am so grateful to have had the absolute pleasure of knowing & working with you. You will forever be missed but never forgotten.
Linda Shincarick
March 18, 2009
My thoughts and prayers are with all of the family.I am so sorry for your loss.
Sue Dougherty
March 18, 2009
I am still shocked and saddened over this news. My thoughts and prayers are with Eric's kids and family. He was one of my favorite reasons for going to work at Mr. Bill's. We had some great laughs, good times and even got some work done. He always walked me to my car at the end of the night and I know my husband appreciated that (although I always thought Eric was the one he should worry about!)
You always made me feel special and beautiful and I will miss you my dear friend.
Sean Potter
March 18, 2009
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Tim Lesser
March 18, 2009
Eric........You will truly and deeply be missed. Thank you for making Mr. Bills feel like a second home. My trips back to Buffalo will never be the same. Thanks for all of the good times, memories and laughs. God Bless you and your family. By the way, she is still working on that book report:)
Tim Lesser (BFT) "Make it a Labatt's"
Todd Suckow
March 18, 2009
From my family to yours, our deepest sympathies to the family. Eric was a great guy, and a great friend. He we be deeply missed by many.
JAMES MCPARTLAN
March 18, 2009
SO SORRY TO HEAR ABOUT YOUR LOSS ERIC WAS A GREAT GUY...
Dee Collins
March 18, 2009
My thoughts, prayers and deepest sympathies go out to Eric's family and many, many friends. Amongst the countless tears and an overwhelming sense of sorrow over the sudden loss of my good friend Eric I am embracing the happiness and the laughter that was so much a part of what he brought into my life. Eric had an irresistable charm and vitality that made him such an enjoyable character to be around and his lighthearted, humorous take on life was something unlike anyone I have ever met. Eric's love of people and his overall zest for life was truly contagious to all who encountered him and it was his optimistic persona that could put a smile on anyone's face. Eric, I will play a song for you and have a drink in your honor. I will be eternally grateful to you for bringing some brightness into my life and although you took just a little piece of my heart with you, what you left for me to hold was a gift I will always cherish. I love you my friend.
Alan Belknap
March 18, 2009
Eric, we love you man...and we will miss your smiles and good humor that always made everyone you met feel special.
Nathan & Lisa Szatkowski
March 18, 2009
Please accept our deepest sympathies.
Michael Queeno
March 18, 2009
E we will all deeply miss you. I pray for you and your family.
Marlene Wauhkonen
March 18, 2009
The angels have a sweet friend. Dear Eric, you will be sadly missed by all your friends who enjoyed your humor every Friday night at Mr. Bills.
It has been a pleasure to know you.
"no, thank you"
Sadly missed Marlene, Jessica and Kaitlyn Wauhkonen
Bill and Alison
March 18, 2009
Dear Beth, Robert, Richard and Thalia,
We are so sorry. If there is anything we can do please let us know.
Joe Wagner
March 18, 2009
Eric you truly will be missed, My condolences to the Steely Family our thoughts are with you
Go Orioles
GARY KUMRO
March 18, 2009
As we look back over time
We find ourselves wondering .....
Did we remember to thank you enough
For all you have done for us?
For all the times you were by our sides
To help and support us .....
To celebrate our successes
To understand our problems
And accept our defeats?
Or for teaching us by your example,
The value of hard work, good judgement,
Courage and integrity?
We wonder if we ever thanked you
For the sacrifices you made.
To let us have the very best?
And for the simple things
Like laughter, smiles and times we shared?
If we have forgotten to show our
Gratitude enough for all the things you did,
We're thanking you now.
And we are hoping you knew all along,
How much you meant to us.
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1671 Maple Rd., Buffalo, NY 14221
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