Eric P. Birr

Eric Paul Birr, age 49, a resident of Manitowoc, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, September 13, 2025, at Froedtert Holy Family Memorial Hospital in Manitowoc.

Eric was born on February 19, 1976, in De Pere to Lauren VandeWalle. Eric was adopted by his parents, Nicholas and Kathleen Birr, who lovingly raised him as their son. He attended schools in Manitowoc and graduated from Roncalli High School with the class of 1994. Eric attended Fox Valley Technical School in Oshkosh where he earned an associate's degree in computer science. He worked at Manitowoc Public Utilities for 10 years before a career change to auto mechanics. Eric was currently working with Associated Raymond Company as a forklift service technician. He married Nicole (Robertson) Birr on August 20, 2016. Together they shared four beautiful children: Ayden and Halle Birr (Sonja Birr), Justis Young and Brittany Leitermann. Whether they were spending quiet time at home or out doing burnouts, the memories Eric and Nicole shared together are too many to count.

Eric enjoyed working on cars, having bonfires, camping, and entertaining friends in his garage for any occasion. His garage was his 'man cave' and the memories he created there with family and friends will be cherished forever. He had a vibrant, fun-loving spirit that lit up every room he entered. He had a quick wit, and made use of it whenever he could. He brought joy and energy wherever he went and his life was truly the definition of living life to the fullest. His sense of humor and lighthearted outlook on life were gifts he shared with everyone around him. Eric was also the kind of person who was always there when you needed a hand, and was a great friend. Above all, he loved spending time with his family and friends, and especially loved being papa to his four grandchildren.

Eric will be missed by his wife: Nicole Birr; parents: Nicholas and Kathleen Birr; son: Ayden Birr (Chloe Schmitz); daughter: Halle Birr (Darian Abbet); step-children: Justis Young (Stephanie Unger) and Brittany Leitermann (Michael Hutchinson); grandchildren: Rivana, Michael III, Akius, and Avery; and four-legged children: Shelby and Savannah. He is further survived by aunts, uncles, other relatives, and many friends. He was preceded in death by his grandparents and beloved dog: Sheeba.

A memorial service for Eric will be held at 12:00 p.m. Noon on Saturday, October 4, 2025, at the Harrigan Parkside Funeral Home, 628 N. Water St., Manitowoc. Family will greet relatives and friends from 11:00 a.m. until the time of service at 12:00 p.m. Officiating at the service will be Deacon Frank Birr. Following the service, a Celebration of Life will be held in Eric's honor at Saucy's Sports Lounge, 1915 Washington Street, Manitowoc, beginning at 2:00 p.m.

Eric's family would like to thank the staff of Froedtert Holy Family Memorial Emergency Room, the City of Manitowoc First Responders and Police Officers, and a special thank you to Dr. Mendoza at Holy Family for the care and compassion provided to Eric and his family. Your kindness will never be forgotten.

Even in his passing, Eric's kindness was evident in his thoughtful choice to be an organ donor. Through organ donation, he gave others the precious gift of hope and healing.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.harriganparksidefuneralhome.com. The Harrigan Parkside Funeral Home and Crematory, North 11th and St. Clair streets, is assisting the family with funeral arrangements.

Life's journey is not to arrive at the grave safely, in a well-preserved body, but rather to skid in sideways, totally worn out, shouting "Holy s***… what a ride!".