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Dusckas - Martin Funeral Home

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Erie, Pennsylvania

Eric Witherite Obituary

Eric P. Witherite, age 41, of Millcreek Township, passed away Thursday, Feb. 18, 2016, at his residence, surrounded by his loving family.
He was born on Oct. 21, 1974, in DuBois, Pa., the son of Donald Witherite of DuBois and Brenda Krach Hendricks (Edwin) of Rockton, Pa.
Eric graduated from DuBois High School in 1994 where he was a three year starter for the football and wrestling teams. Eric transferred from Slippery Rock University in 1996 to Gannon University to wrestle and graduated in 1999 with a bachelor's degree in elementary education. He was inducted into the Gannon University Athletic Hall of Fame and received the Golden Knight Courage Award in 2016. Eric attended Edinboro University to receive his master's degree in school administration.
Eric taught in the Millcreek Township School District at Chestnut Hill Elementary School (12 years) and was the head varsity wrestling coach at McDowell H.S. for nine years, where he rebuilt McDowell's wrestling program to be a state-recognized program.
Eric enjoyed anything his sons were involved in: wrestling, golfing, NASCAR, and the Steelers.
Besides his parents, Eric is survived by his beloved wife, Amy M. Skrbin Witherite; two sons, Luke and Hayden; one sister, Tanya Witherite; five brothers: Jason, Donald, and Shawn Witherite, Grant and David Hendricks; his grandparents, Ann and Donald Witherite, Irene Shannon; his mother-in-law, Donna Skrbin; his father-in-law, Ronald Skrbin.
He was preceded in death by his grandmother, Jean Hendricks and grandfather, William Hendricks.
Friends may call from 2:30-8 p.m. today, Sunday, Feb. 21, 2016, the Dusckas-Martin Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc., 4216 Sterrettania Rd., Erie, Pa., and are invited there on Monday for the funeral service at 10 a.m. Private interment.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Memories of Love Foundation, PO Box 58027, Jacksonville, FL 32241-9906 or to the ALS Association of Western PA, c/o Eric Witherite, 416 Lincoln Ave., Millvale, PA 15209.

Published by The Courier Express on Feb. 21, 2016.
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Memories and Condolences
for Eric Witherite

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I knew Eric through both of my sons - Brendan and Amani. He was Brendan's wrestling coach at McDowell and helped Brendan get into Gannon. He was Amani's teacher in grade school. He always had an infectious smile that reminded me of a little kid that was causing some sort of mischief. He also showed great kindness to everyone that he met. He is deeply missed.

David Bosko

Acquaintance

February 14, 2019

May the Lord comfort all of Eric's loved ones during this difficult time. This is truly bet sad!!! Love you Brenda... bless all of you!!!

Lori Brocious

February 26, 2016

I was one of Eric's football coaches. I have great memories of Eric. He had a great sense of humor and was a competitor. His family is in my prayers.

Jim McGonnell

February 24, 2016

Amy just found out you and your family are in my heart and prayers. Eric was a great man. Ixxoo. Love Shawne

February 23, 2016

My thoughts and prayers to the Witherite family. My boys had him as a teacher at Chestnut Hill and always spoke highly of him.

Chris S.

February 23, 2016

To the Witherite Family,
We were deeply saddened to see the passing of your wonderful husband and father. We lost my dad, Roy Glass, to this vicious disease two and a half years ago. I know how the anger and sadness over the utter unfairness of it all can be overwhelming but hold tight to your loved ones and memories. We are thinking of you all and sending positive energy your way.
- The Glass Family

Lindsey Glass

February 23, 2016

Amy,
I'm so sorry for your loss. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.

Kayleigh Strain

February 22, 2016

Amy, so sorry to hear about Eric. He had a long battle now he can rest in peace. My condolences to you and your family. Sorry I couldn't be there in person.

Jim Frits

February 21, 2016

May God rest your soul and Bless your family. Forever in our prayers.

Kristen & Lee Castana

February 21, 2016

So sorry for your loss. Eric was a very special teacher who touched the lives of my two children, Paul and Anna. Our prayers are with your family.

Pat & Linda Kemper

February 21, 2016

I will never forget his kindness to Ava and Trey Bailey during that painful time in our lives. My prayers are with you and your family.

Susan Wingenbach

February 21, 2016

"Perhaps they are not the stars, but rather openings in heaven where the love of our lost ones pours through and shines down upon us to let us know that they are happy" -unknown

My deepest sympathies.

Jerri Schertzer

February 21, 2016

Sorry for you loss. Amy, you and your children and family are in our thoughts and prayers.

Dee Scott

February 21, 2016

TO THE FAMILY OF ERIC WITHERITE IM SO VERY SORRY FOR THE LOSS OF YOURE LOVED ONE PRAYERS TO ALL OF YOU

RENIE MARSELLA

February 21, 2016

Amy,
So sorry for your loss.He was a fearless competitor and his accomplishments at McDowell wrestling will never be forgotten.

Paul Cousins

February 21, 2016

Our hearts are deeply saddened with the loss of Eric. Life is cruel but God is Good. God holds him close and leads him to eternal peace now. He is truly one of Gods Angels. As time passes we pray you find comfort and strength with your family and friends.

Bill and Debbie Rusonis

February 21, 2016

Extraordinary, Reverent, Inspirational, Courageous
May God now embrace your family now
As you watch over them from Heaven
Fondly Remembered
Daly Family

February 21, 2016

Very sorry for loss.My kids also went to McDowell.And I from the DuBois area.I grew up in Penfield,Pa.My prayers are with your family.God bless.

Barbara (Buganza)Gerarde

February 21, 2016

Sorry for your loss he was a good man and great teacher my 4 children had him and loved him god bless

Donald Thomas

February 20, 2016

Donna and family, so sorry for your loss.

Jill Seibel

February 20, 2016

So sorry for your loss. Eric was a great guy, I grew up with him in Rockton. May God help guide you through this difficult time.

Cary and Rob Platt

February 20, 2016

I went to grade school with Eric and he was always smiling and very funny. He turned out to be a fine man and GOD BLESS HIS FAMILY.

DARLENE BROWN

February 20, 2016

You are in our thoughts and prayers in the loss of your husband, father, son and brother. Eric touched the hearts and minds of so many students including our daughter at such an impressionable age. Eric is one of those rare teachers and coaches who daily lived his life committed to enriching others as a model teacher and coach. Until someday reunited in heaven, Eric (Mr. Witherite) will remain an indelible and cherished memory for his students their families, colleagues and the entire community. May God bless you with endearing memories and comfort you in your grief over the coming days, months and years.

Michael, Denise and Meghan Lawson

February 20, 2016

Amy and the boy's so sorry for your loss. Prayers for ERIC Family and mother in-law Donna.

Kathie Mike Mellish

February 20, 2016

Deepest condolences. May Eric rest in peace. Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you Amy and family.

Corina McCandrew(Gaiser)

February 20, 2016

Our deepest condolences. We'll keep your family in our thoughts and prayers. Rest in peace, Eric.

Ray Ignosh

February 20, 2016

We are so sorry for your loss
May god comfort all of you.
our Love and prayers are with you

Russell & Linda Hand and Fami;y

February 20, 2016

What a fight. Love to those who love him!

Mulherns

February 20, 2016

So sorry for your loss. He will be greatly missed by many. The entire family is in our thoughts and prayers.

Ed, Dawn & Brandon Connor

February 20, 2016

What I will remember most about Eric is that he was a leader, and yes, so courageous! One of my fondest memories is eraser tag and of course he participated balancing it on his head and having fun with the kids in the classroom as well as many games of kickball. Let the fur fly! He would talk to his students also about appreciating what they were given without pressuring their parents for the latest everything. I know your family has made the best and most of every moment and you'll always be together by the strong spirit of love and laughter. Continued outpouring of prayer and thanskgiving for life well lived and the peace and assurance of heaven.
Sincerely,
Carolyn DiLoreto

February 20, 2016

So sorry for your loss. Will keep the family in our prayers.

Jeff and Michele Bowser

February 20, 2016

So Sorry for your Loss Thoughts and Prayers are with you all

Laurie Logan,Davis

February 20, 2016

Eric was a great guy and will be missed by all who had the privilege to know him

Donnie Geibel

February 20, 2016

Dear Witherite Family,
I met Eric during his Slippery Rock years. I managed the Wrestling team during his time at SRU. My deepest sympathy is extended to Amy & the boys. I'm so deeply sorry for your loss. May all of you find peace during this most difficult time.

Chrissi Richards

February 20, 2016

Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Wendy & Geoff Barnum

February 20, 2016

May he rest in peace and rise with the angels.

Annie and Bob Frew

February 20, 2016

Dear Amy and Sons, Donna and all the members of the Witherite Family, Thoughts & prayers are with you during this difficult time.

Theresa & Al

February 20, 2016

We are so sorry for your loss. Eric was a great kid who grew into an even greater man. To know Eric was to love him. He will be missed by many. Sam and Ted Solida , DuBois, PA

February 20, 2016

We are heartbroken for your family. We are praying for strength and comfort. We love you

Damon and Missie Church

February 20, 2016

Amy, and family, you all are in outmr thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.

Jen and John McGee

February 20, 2016

We are deeply sadend by the passing of mr witherite my son Andrew loved him and would talk about him at home with us when he went to chestnut hill. May my son guide him in heaven. Love the Monschein family.

Mark Monschein

February 20, 2016

So sorry for you loss,I only knew Eric as a small child but I see he grew into a wonderful man,husband and father ,his mother and I have know each other since grade school,may God be with your family and Brenda during this sad time and know again how sorry I am for your time of sadness! ♡

Brenda Donahue,Bojalad

February 20, 2016

Amy & family, my deepest sympathies for your loss of Eric. He was definitely one of the good guys. His courage and strength, as well as your own are an inspiration. Much love, hugs and prayers for peace for you all.

Gloria Lockhart

February 20, 2016

Mr. Witherite was one of my favorite teachers. I was just a weird little fourth grader the first year he taught at Chestnut Hill, but he always made me feel welcome and accepted. I am so grateful to have known him and learned from him. My deepest sympathies and warmest thoughts to the family.

Lauren Kolb

February 20, 2016

Although I never knew Eric personally, I am a fellow teacher in Millcreek. I was aware though of his many accomplishments. What a wonderful example for his children and his perseverance to live life to its fullest. You have my deepest sympathy and may God bless you and give you strenghth.

Michele Pulice

February 20, 2016

I didn't personally know Eric, but my nephew, Ron Celeski, is your neighbor. Ronnie kept me updated on Eric since both Eric and my husband of 42 years had ALS. My husband, Bill, passed away in September from ALS. And like Eric, Bill fought the disease with everything he had. No words can console you right now but do believe that God has a special place for the victims of this disease. I have kept Eric in my prayers and will continue to do so for you and your sons.

Meg Mullen Kessler

February 20, 2016

Our family is deeply saddened by the loss of Eric. He was such a positive influence and inspiration to more people than you can imagine. Rest in peace, Eric.

David Bosko

February 20, 2016

Amy,
We are friends of the Fry's. Our deepest sympathy to you and your boys. I often ask about your family as my grandmother passed away from ALS. We pray daily for a cure. You are all in our thoughts and prayers. We will always remember Eric as a fighter and hero!

Lane Family

February 20, 2016

Eric was a great man, thought and prayers for the whole family.

Christina Kramer

February 20, 2016

amy I am Tanya's aunt. maryann kutsel
I knew eric. he was very kind, and considerate to others. he will be sadly missed. GOD BLESS and you have my deepest sympathy.

maryann kutsel

February 20, 2016

R.I.P. Eric. Sending prayers to family.

Nichole Snyder

February 20, 2016

I am so sorry for you loss. I am sure he is now walking with the angels and watching over your family. My prayers are with you.

Michelle Mioduszewski Niagara Therapy, LLC

February 20, 2016

We are so very sorry for your loss. While we didn't personally know your family, Irene Shannon is our neighbor. You are ALL remembered in our prayers.

Denise Laukitis

February 20, 2016

Eric is an inspiration to so many people and he touched the lives of everyone he met. We are lucky to have known him and his memory will live on in you and your beautiful sons. Many prayers to you all. Love - Denise and Rich

Denise Bedoya

February 20, 2016

Amy, I worked with Eric for a short time at Chestnut Hill. He was such a sweet man and the kids loved him. Our sympathies to you and your sons.
Susan and David Heyl

February 20, 2016

Thoughts and Prays to the Family and Friends

Jim Kaliszewski

February 20, 2016

So sorry for your loss. Praying for you and your family.

Mike and Wendy Rushnok

February 20, 2016

What a wonderful soul. I'm glad you're suffering is over my friend. You certainly left one he'll of a legacy. You will never be forgotten.

Kari Stoneberp

February 20, 2016

Amy, my deepest sympathy & condolences. I'm so sorry for your loss, you and your family are in our thoughts & prayers.

edith prather

February 20, 2016

So sorry for your loss. You have my deepest sympathy.

Mary Beth Yanek-Roselli

February 20, 2016

Thoughts and prayers to you and your family during this time.

Brian and Carol Roach

February 20, 2016

Although i did go to Gannon, I didn't know Eric very well but i am saddened to hear about what he went through. So sorry for your loss. He is in my prayers along with your family. X O

SHERRY PAPAJ (Hausrath)

February 20, 2016

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