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Eric David Drotning
Eric David Drotning
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Eric Drotning Obituary
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Matthew Griego
October 13, 2005
I was so stunned and saddened by the news. I remember all the jokes Eric and I shared sitting in the back row of Mrs. Sanchez's English class back at La Cueva HS, and how amazing it was to hear him play percussion in AYS. A true loss for this world, but I have no doubt that heaven is made better by his presence.
pam j
July 26, 2005
I continue to think of Eric every time I hear a percussion instrument. I am reminded of what a beautiful , caring heart he had. He allowed me to borrow his drum set, just to see if I was interested in taking up drums. I broke my toe while putting the set together :) Whenever I bump my toe, I am again reminded of this wonderful person! I miss him. Bill and Chris, you must be so very proud of him, so talented, so caring. Helen , how blessed you are for sharing a part of your life with him. My prayers go out to you all. Pam
Roger & Alice Pickering
July 22, 2005
Eric was our son-in-law. In the time we knew him, first as Helen's friend, then her husband, we grew to lowe him. Some of our fondest memories are of their visits with us, at holidays and during summer, and how he made himself "at home" in our company. Our hearts ache knowing we will not see him again, or hear his music. We feel blessed to have met him and that he was part of our family for even a few years. We will love him always, miss him forever, and trust that he is in God's care.
Phil and Sylvia Glenn
July 21, 2005
Bill and Chris: We will always have fond memories of Eric on family adventures with the Glenns -vacationing at the Lake of the Ozarks when the "kids" had their own trailer or painting the condo at Angel Fire when they got a bit wild and Eric lost his wallet. However, our best memories are of Eric's cherub, smiling face in the children's choir at church. We share your loss and send our love and prayers to you both and Liz. May the Lord hold you all in the palm of His hand as He also is with Eric. In His love, Phil and Sylvia.
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Dolores Bott
July 18, 2005
Obviously Eric touch so many lives and hearts.
As a parent, my heart aches for his entire family.
To the entire Drotning family: I'm thinking of you with my heart and remembering you in my prayers.
Mary Hanewall
July 16, 2005
How lucky I am to have attended St. Olaf's concert here in Denver several years ago. The place abound with guests wearing their Scandinavian sweaters.
To my surprise--and delight--Eric was the soloist for the concert, performing that difficult Japanese piece on the xylaphone. It was immediately obvious this young man was not only gifted, he was passionate, fiery. The audience loved his music, his presence.
What a loss. But what a legacy for a man so young. Our love and condolences to Eric's wonderful family and friends who know so well the goodness of his spirit, as well as his musical genius.
Laura Bott
July 12, 2005
Eric, you were everything a friend could be. Your love knew no bounds; your commitment, no exceptions. You were passionate in all you did and spoke about, reaching the depths of every soul you graced with your presence. I thank God for our time together, for an incredible bond of trust and respect. I know you are safe in the perfect home God prepared for you, where you can smile down on all those who loved you.
Until that glorious day we meet again...
Martha Rowe
July 6, 2005
Wa-wuff. Its hard to tell such a great friend "farewell," isn't it? But I have a feeling his gracious presence will continue to be with you for a long, long time to come. Eric, we mourn the loss of your wonderful heart and fabulous smile. Thank you for all you gave to us and taught us. You are truly a gift from God.
Jeff Kinney
July 6, 2005
My thoughts and prayers go out to all of Eric’s family and friends. Eric and I were also in the Drumline together at La Cueva High School in Albuquerque, NM. We played tenors together my senior year and spent many afternoons at his house working on different cadences and sharing a good laugh. His ability was far greater than mine, but he always kept his patience with me when I was struggling. We did not keep contact after high school but the memories always stayed fresh and alive in my mind and heart. Eric you are greatly missed, I look forward to the day that I may greet you again and have a good laugh. God Bless my friend.
Ray Leyva
July 4, 2005
I would like to offer my prayers and a best wish to the family in the light of Eric’s passing. Although I feel great loss, I am also blessed with the wonderful memories I have of Drot. I first met Eric in our high school drumline. Even back then, his talent was obvious. But more importantly, the honesty and character that attracted to so many people into his life was evident. I was proud to see him grow as a musician and as a young man. All of us look back fondly on those days, and a big reason for that is Eric’s wit, personality, and laugh. Thanks for touching our lives. It may be a while before our paths cross again, but we will take with us the memories and lessons you shared with us all. Raymond V. Leyva
Helen Pickering Drotning
July 3, 2005
Happy birthday, Er.
Many thanks to those of you who have offered your memories, love, prayers, and support to all of us. It is impossible to express to you just how much we appreciate your kindness. Thank you for continuing to honor, remember, and celebrate Eric's life with us.
Bill Drotning
July 3, 2005
It's Eric's birthday today. Thank you SO much for the many wonderful stories, kind thoughts, and heartfelt expressions for Eric and his family. These messages have been a treasure for his mom and me. I won't try to recount all that has happened these 2 weeks...just a few notes for you.
His funeral was a very overwhelming event, with incredible music and words from his friends at St. Olaf. Thank you Erik H., Steve, Jennifer, Jon, Matt, Anna, and Scott, and all the instrumental musicians for your special tributes to Eric...the music was wonderful! We have a CD of the service -- let us know if you'd like a copy.
At Cleveland State Univ, there was another memorial service. Some 55 of Eric's friends, colleagues, teachers, and students attended. More special music from his buddies -- a rag with marimba and xylo by Aaron, Greg, and Aaron - and a 4th pair of mallets unused. And a time of sharing and tears. Thanks so much to the university, and especially Eric's professor Tom Freer, who arranged and sponsored the service, and together with Prof. Browning, pulled many strings to have us awarded Eric's Master's Degree in Percussion Performance. We are grateful to Pastor Dave and organist Seth for leading the service. The Elgar "Nimrod" on the organ was powerful and moving, even without my favorite timpani part.
Then a few days for Mom, Dad, and Helen of sorting and cleaning Er's apartment, supported by hard work and sharing and tears and wonderful stories from his special friends Greg, Aaron, Dave, and Aaron. And on Wednesday last, Greg used Eric's bat to make the game-winning hit for their softball team...we all smiled.
A memorial service will be in Albuquerque on Friday July 8. Peace to all of you, and thank you for your supporting arms and words.
Eric's Dad, Bill
Lisa Montgomery
July 2, 2005
To the Drotning family,
Our deepest sympathy to you all in your terrible loss. We are so very sorry.Our prayers are with you all.
(Liz is engaged to my nephew , Seth Hartwell)
Lisa and Greg Montgomery
Ryan and Allison
Dave Tapp
June 30, 2005
To all of Eric's family I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Eric was one of a kind. He was the most talented person I have ever met and will always remember him. The years we spent in Drumline together were my favorite years, for he was the most inspiring person to be around. He wrote a cadence for the line and it quickly became our favorite. This coming fall I will head to La Cueva and make sure they still play it and if not I will teach it to them so his legacy will live on through his music, as I am sure he hoped it would.
Alice Satterwhite
June 29, 2005
I've known Eric since Eisenhower and he alwasy amazed me with his talents and his kind heart. He will be missed. My thoughts and prayers are with his wife and family.
Kelly Hall
June 29, 2005
I went to high school with Eric and was in band with him for 3 years. He was one of the kindest and most talented people I knew. My thoughts and prayers are with the family - Eric, you will be missed.
Kristy Cooley
June 29, 2005
Dear Drotning Family,
In this time of sorrow, smile knowing that Eric positively touched many lives in his short presence here. I had the privilege of knowing "Drot" at La Cueva and always appreciated his gentle nature and musical expertise. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Heather Ferguson
June 27, 2005
Dear Liz and the Drotning family,
Our hearts go out to you on this sorrowful occasion of Eric's death. I am grateful to have had the opportunity to work with both Eric and Liz at WCAL Radio. You are in our thoughts and prayers. God's peace be with you.
Cara Wilson
June 25, 2005
I first remember Eric as a high school freshman, sitting behind the timpani in AYS rehearsal. Once, Mr. Kempter started and stopped rehearsal- glancing at his score and than back at the percussionists, a puzzled look on his face. The student behind the marimba blankly starred back at the conductor. After three tries of the same cacophonous passage, Eric silently got up from the timpani, walked to the marimba, and looked at the music on the stand. Without a word, he shuffled the music, putting the correct piece in front of the marimba player. The rest of the orchestra laughed and laughed, but Eric- in his cool, stoic way- just walked back to his seat with a hint of a smile on his face.
To Liz and the entire Drotning family: prayers and memories.
Chester Englander
June 25, 2005
From my first contact with Eric, I knew that he was a genuine person who could be counted on in every way. His honesty and candid demeanor was refreshing every time I spent time with him, whether it was in orchestra or on the phone. There will always be pieces of music that will conjure fond memories of standing with Eric in Youngstown, and I feel blessed to have had him in my life.
Emily Kahnert
June 25, 2005
I heard so many stories about Eric from his adoring sister that I felt I knew him before I ever met him. He was sweet, kind, dedicated, loyal, talented, and such a joy to his family and friends. Getting to play with him in the St. Olaf Orchestra was an amazing experience that I will always cherish. Eric will live on in the memories of so many that knew him. To the Drotnings and especially my dear Liz, you are in Brett's and my thoughts and prayers. We love you.
Peter Witrak
June 24, 2005
Eric, thank you for playing in many of my compositions, and thank you for being such a warm and steady presence in those lives that you touched.
Amy Bonhag
June 24, 2005
I am so sorry about this tragic loss. The music world has lost a very talented percussionist, and so many have lost a good friend and family member. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.
St. Olaf '02
Matt Beck
June 24, 2005
I have had the pleasure of working with Eric several times over the last two years. As a musician, he was always a player that I could count on. His dedication will be sorely missed by myself and the Canton Symphony. My thoughts are with the Drotning family and with Eric's friends and colleagues at Cleveland State University.
Jim Casella
June 24, 2005
I taught Eric while he was a member of the Santa Clara Vanguard drum and bugle corps. He is without a doubt, one of the most special students I have ever had the honor to teach. He came to SCV at a time when I was still a fairly young instructor, learning my way. Through his kind and accepting nature, and his outstanding talents, he indirectly taught me a great deal about composing. I have always been very proud of Eric and his accomplishments, and will never forget him. With love, Jim Casella
Laura Wilkinson
June 24, 2005
Eric was an amazing performer; I was always in awe of him. He will be missed. My thoughts and prayers are with his family.
Dawn Schuffenhauer
June 24, 2005
To my dear Helen, and the rest of the Drotning family: I am so very sorry to hear of your loss. Please know that there are many who are grieving with you and sharing your pain and who will be there for you in a heartbeat if you ask. Eric was a delight to be around and will be greatly missed by all who had the opportunity to know him. Again, my deepest sympathies to you and yours.
Justin Windschitl
June 24, 2005
Eric - virtually every memory of you is interwoven with a piece of music...I am so grateful for the way music brought us together. I will think of you every time I hear the first movement of Beethoven's 8th...oh how we came to despise that piece while living together the summer after our first year at St. Olaf...and you know how appreciative I still am for the recording of it you bought me on my birthday! :) Your dedication to the things and people you cared about is admirable. I am thankful to have a collection of St. Olaf Orchestra recordings - you were unjustly taken from us, but your memory will live on through music.
Christine Venesile
June 23, 2005
Dear Mr. & Mrs. Drotning,
Since talking to Bill 2 nights ago & learning of Eric's death, I haven't been able to get him or the 2 of you out of my mind. I had the pleasure of meeting Eric only 1 month ago, as he inspected a home that I had for rent in Lakewood. In that short meeting, though, I saw a very kind & loving man, through the words that he spoke & looking into his eyes, which seemed to directly connect to his heart. I remember thinking how honest he was, too. He wanted to be sure it was OK that he practiced his drums in the house, though reassured me that mostly it would be done on a rubber practice pad! We talked a few times on the phone after that initial meeting & I really was able to see that he was a very loyal & kind man. After talking to Bill the other night, I can see where that kindness comes from! Even though I barely knew him, he really made an impact on my life.
What wonderful parents you both are to raise such a beautiful man, inside & out! My thoughts & prayers go out to both of you & to all of Eric's family & friends. I pray that God will give you the strength to get through this very difficult time.
Jennifer Duckworth
June 23, 2005
Eric was one of the most talented and gifted young men that I have ever known. He was a significant part of the Santa Clara Vanguard family and we will miss him very much.
hillary svengalis
June 23, 2005
I was informed this morning of the sad, sad news. I am so very sorry to hear about Eric's death. Throughout my time spent at St. Olaf, I was so very grateful to be in Eric's presence. He was such a wonderful and talented person and he will truly be missed. Tears are being shed for him in Connecticut.
May God be with you all during this difficult time.
With my deepest condolences,
Adam Mamula
June 23, 2005
Dear Drotning family,
I was saddened today to learn of Eric's passing. I had the privledge to work with him on a professional level with various orchestras. I also played softball with him and witnessed his great athletic ability. He was a good guy and a very talented musician. He will be missed.
Kim, Kevin, Murphy and Maeve Metheny
June 23, 2005
We have just heard the sad news of Eric's dealth. He taught my daughter, Murphy, percussion and he was truly a wonderful teacher. May the love of family and friends comfort and strengthen you in the days ahead.
Jocelyn Hagen
June 23, 2005
I wish I could hear you play again. miss you.
Liz Drotning
June 23, 2005
We would just like everyone to know how grateful we are for your love and support. Your kind words about Eric and your thoughts and prayers mean the world to us. Thank you.
Brenda Lovick
June 23, 2005
Dear Helen & all of Eric's family,
I am so sorry to hear about Eric's death. He was such a bright, delightful young man. It was a blessing to me to have been at St. Olaf when he was there. May God's peace be with you at such a difficult time.
John Powell
June 23, 2005
A great guy will be greatly missed by all of us in the Percussion Studio at Cleveland State University.
Bill Green
June 23, 2005
Condolences to the Drotning family.
May God's Peace be with you today and always.
Rose Egizii
June 23, 2005
My heart goes out to all of you. My daughter Jessica Fillar and her boyfriend Joe live down stairs of Eric and Helen in the lakewood home, and thought the world of these wounderful people. My prayers are with you all at this time.
God Bless, Rose Egizii
Richard Macklin
June 23, 2005
Dear Bill & Chris:
Words can't express the shock & sorrow that Sandra and I felt when we read the news about Eric this morning. Eric was an incredibly intelligent and talented young man, and his friendship meant the world to our son Chris. I hope to be able to attend the memorial in Albuquerque. Our thoughts are with you and the entire Drotning family at this time.
With best wishes,
Jennifer Kult
June 23, 2005
I can't believe you're gone. You are missed.
Jill Lawrence
June 23, 2005
I want to extend my deepest sympathies to the family. I am a friend of Liz and I was sad to hear this tragic news. From everything I've heard about Eric, he sounds like a brilliant, wonderful man who will be sorely missed. My heartfelt thoughts/prayers go out to all of you.
Karen McKim
June 23, 2005
What a terrible loss. Eric is now with his heavenly Father and is freed from this vale of tears, but our hearts go out to Eric's family. I wish that the pain we feel could somehow lessen the family's burden of grief.
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