Eric Vincent Mark Verdulla

Eric Vincent Mark Verdulla was born on July 11, 1983, in Detroit, Michigan, and was raised in Marshalltown, Iowa, by his parents, Byron and Renee Hof. He graduated from GMG High School in 2002, already carrying a creative spark, a storyteller’s soul, and a life quietly guided by music.

Music wasn’t simply a passion; it ran through his blood. It shaped how he expressed himself and how he connected with others. Eric was an extraordinarily talented musician, able to play multiple instruments and sing across many genres. Whether performing with his brother, Elick in their band Agony of Defeat, playing solo, or sharing music in quieter settings, he gave his gift freely. The stage was a natural extension of who he was, but so was any space where sound, story, and feeling could meet.

In September of 2003, Eric met Shannon Crawford. They were married on September 16, 2006, and through that union Eric gained a stepson, Drake Crawford. Together they welcomed two daughters, Journey Verdulla, born June 6, 2007, and Ella Verdulla, born January 25, 2012. Eric and Shannon separated in 2019.

Eric later met Jillian Schroder, and together they welcomed another daughter, Peyton Verdulla, born September 8, 2020. He also embraced Jillian’s children—Maddy, Kashton, and Alivia—as his own.

Beyond family and music, Eric enjoyed golfing and being with friends. He never met a stranger and was always down for a good time with lots of laughs.

On December 29, 2025, Eric lost his battle with depression and other mental illnesses. His passing leaves behind a deep and tender absence. Yet those who loved him take comfort in believing he is now at peace—free from the struggles that weighed on him, light again in spirit.

Eric is survived by his children: stepson Drake (Erinn) Crawford, Journey Verdulla, Ella Verdulla, and Peyton Verdulla; his parents Byron and Renee Hof; sister April (Jeff) McKibbin; sister Christy Halverson; brother Elick (Stephanie) Verdulla; sister Amanda (Michael) Huisman; brother Luke (RaeLynn) See; Grandmother; Leah Liddle, along with many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends.

We all know that you are up in heaven singing away and looking down on all of us. Though Eric is gone, his spirit lives on in every song sung, every joke retold, and every moment of love he gave. He will be deeply missed and forever loved.

For those who may be struggling with mental health: you are not alone, and help is always within reach. If you or someone you love needs support, you can call or text 988, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, available 24/7, or reach out to a trusted friend, family member, or healthcare professional. There is strength in asking for help, and there is always hope—sometimes it just needs a voice to answer back.

- lovingly written by the family

Funeral Services for Eric will take place at 10:30 AM on Saturday, January 10, 2026 at Journey Church in Marshalltown. Friends and family are also invited to attend a visitation on Friday, January 9, also at Journey Church, from 5:00 to 7:00 PM. All attendees are encouraged to dress casually both days, sporting your favorite band tee in support of his love of music. Memorials may be directed to the family. Mitchell Family Funeral Home has been entrusted with the care of Eric and his family. For questions or condolences, visit www.mitchellfh.com or call 641-844-1234.