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Eric Dean Thomas

Eric Thomas Obituary

THOMAS, Eric Dean
Died unexpectedly Wednesday, June 30, 2004. He was born on May 18, 1961, in San Francisco, CA. Eric received his B.A. in economics from UC Santa Cruz and a Master's degree in Public Affairs from the University of Washington. As Deputy Executive Director, State Treasurer's Office, he managed both the California Pollution Control Financing Authority and the California Industrial Development Financing Advisory Commission. Eric served as past President of the UC Santa Cruz Alumni Association and was newly elected as an UCSC Foundation Trustee. He coached his children's basketball, baseball, and soccer teams and volunteered with various community organizations. Eric was an avid golfer, an accomplished musician, and an outdoor enthusiast. He completed the 2003 California International Marathon - his first. Eric is survived by his devoted wife, Leilani; daughter, Imani; son, Tiger; father, Dr. William Thomas; brother, William, Jr.; sister, Maei; and a host of loving family and friends. His life will be celebrated by family and friends at 11am Saturday, July 10th, at Riverside Wesleyan Church, 6449 Riverside Blvd. Wake at Morgan Jones Funeral Home, 4200 Broadway, Friday, July 9th, from 3pm to 7pm. Contact the church or funeral home for interment arrangements. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Eric Thomas Memorial Fund, Golden One Credit Union, 1109 L St, Sacramento, CA 95814

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Sacramento Bee from Jul. 4 to Jul. 9, 2004.

Memories and Condolences
for Eric Thomas

Sponsored by the UW Sloanies.

48 Entries

Margarita

July 18, 2025

it's been years...I know. but i think about Eric often. I had the privilege of working with him at the Office of the Auditor General and specifically on a project in Oakland. He was such a wonderful person and was always so positive. I remember his/your son speaking at his services/memorial and said that Eric always told him that when he got up in the morning he should look in the mirror and say today is going to be a great day and not to let anyone else give him their bad day ... and I looked at a coworker and said "that was his secret" he was always so positive no matter what was going on and I have often used his saying with my own kids ... here we are over 20 years later and Eric Thomas is still alive in us all. I am sure that the kids and Leilani (who he absolutely adored) carry his spirit with them and are as wonderful and positive as Eric was

Larry Gomberg

August 4, 2010

I did not know Eric. However, I do believe that I know Leilani. In 1971 I lived with the Ferrari family. Alice, Eric, and Leilani lived upstairs and I lived in the basement. Bill was not in the household at that time, but would visit the kids and Alice often. I was attending SF State at that time. I have fond memories of Alice and the kids and I playing on the beach across from the Great Highway. I am truly sorry for your loss. I would love to hear about the family. You can reach me on Facebook if you wish. Thanks for listening and sorry again about your loss.

Sincerely,
Larry Gomberg

Leilani Ferrari

April 19, 2005

This past Saturday, April 16th, UCSC honored Eric with a lovely redwood bench made by Shandor, one of his UCSC Alumni Council Members, as well as a bronze placque placed on a granite stone next to the bench with his photo and some text which I wrote. There is also a wall memorial/tribute hanging in the UCSC Oakes College Office above the fireplace which will be seen by the students as they come in to get their mail and snacks or admin papers. Please if you ever get a chance, stop by the UCSC Oakes College Provosts house where the bench overlooks the Santa Cruz/Monterey Bay. Take a moment to sit on the bench and reflect on all of the good times that you may have had with Eric and me. He will always be loved and remembered for that is my promise to his children.

The first Eric Thomas Memorial Scholarship was presented to Charles Tolliver in February and he is a very nice, educated and humble young man dedicated to the pursuit of truth and justice I hope. He is very thankful to all who contributed funds to the scholarship that he received.

Thank you all for your support during this first year of hardship which Imani, Tiger, Valerie, and Ian are enduring with me.

Peace and Blessings, Leilani Ferrari

Leilani Ferrari

October 15, 2004

Well it is Tiger's 14th Borthday and the !st one with out his dad. We had a party on Sunday 10/10 for him and his buddy, Sidney Jones, born the day after him. Glad they still enjoy their bdays together. Had a Jump/Climb/Slide at the end of the culdesac, BBQ, cupcakes and a pinata. What more could a kid ask for besides all of the presents and his dad. Took 48 cupcakes to school today and then to Chuckee Cheese with grandma, cousin Chyzine, Val, Ian and Imani and had a ball. Sat he gets to go Rock Climbing at Pipeworks with his cousins and friends. Trying to make it as special as possible. Well looks like this page will end soon and I just wanted to thank all of you again for your kind words, prayers, love and time with me and the kids during our time of grief. Love you all. Peace and blessings to you and yours from me and mine. Always have a good day and don't let anyone give you their bad day. God and E and all the ancestor spirits will continue to shine in us all as long as we remember them often, speak well of them and remember all of the good times shared and to come. Love Always, Leilani--Also love from Imani and Tiger :)!

Katrina Pasiliao

September 24, 2004

Eric was so full of life. In all the years we knew him I don't recall ever seeing him down. He befriended our family very quickly and he and his family became our family. There are so very few people who are truly angels here on earth...Eric was definately one of those people. God is lucky to have him and he will be missed by those of us still here. We look forward to meeting him again someday. We love and miss you Eric!

Lani, Imani and Tiger: We are always here for you...just a phone call away. Our hearts go out to all of you. We love you!

The Pasiliao Family

Anita "Yvette" Hammond

August 12, 2004

I first met Eric in the Fall of 1980. It was my 3rd year at UC Santa Cruz and Eric had just transferred over. The first thing that struck me about Eric --- outside the fact that he bounced off the ground six inches with each step he took --- was his kind spirit and his generous nature. In fact he was so kind - people had a tendency to take advantage of his good nature. I thought " this boy needs someone to look after him". We were friends from that point on.

Being Eric - soon he was looking after me. That following summer when I had no place to stay for a couple weeks he opened up his place to me. And his generosity did not end with simply providing me a place to land. During those weeks I was working the swing shift at Seven-Eleven and every night he and his buddy would come down off the hill and pick me up (anywhere between midnight and 3:00 A.M.), so I would not have to take the bus home in the middle of the night. I would get them one or two bottles of cheap champagne and we would all have a good time.

I would be remiss in speaking of Eric and not mentioning Leilani. If you know Eric, you know Leilani. Both kind beautiful spirits that are together as a result of destiny. From the beginning of our friendship, he repeatedly said "Yvette, I want you to meet my lady", "Yvette, I want you to meet my lady". Leilani and I soon too, became friends.

Eric joined us at the University of Washington after first spending a semester at Berkeley. He said he left Berkeley because he did not like it but to this day I believe that he could not tolerate being separated from Leilani.

At the "UW", many times we would work in teams. We would work all week late into the night until the whole team could not take it any longer - but we were sure that the result was tight. At least we thought that until Eric's team got up and did their presentation. Eric would have color graphics, sound effects, arrows shooting in from the sides - all the bells and whistles. You might say "no big deal just PowerPoint" - sure, say that now - but remember this was 17 years ago. Microsoft was a small software company outside of Seattle. To this day I do not know how he did it. But you had to love him, and you had to respect him. He worked very hard and he just had that special flare.

Eric was not the type of person to excel and leave everyone else behind. If you needed help he would sit up with you all night if necessary. I remember just before a class final, Eric sitting up with me as I prepared for the final and lecturing me on how I was allowing the professor to psych me out - that this stuff should be simple for me.

I can go on and on and speak to the good times that we have had over the years. Eric was my friend, my brother in spirit and I will miss him.

Leilani, Imani and Tiger -- all my love and prayers.

Leilani Ferrari

July 22, 2004

Thanks again to each of you for expressing such kind thoughts and memories of my husband. I will print these and keep them in a memory book for my children to remember how many lives their dad touched in such a short time with us. Remember to live each day like it is your last, try to fulfill your dreams no matter how impossible they may seem and kiss your loved ones each day for you never know if it will be the last kiss that day. Peace and Blessings to you and yours.

Leilani

susan cohen

July 14, 2004

Dear Lani

I am so sorry about Eric. You, Imani and Tiger are in my thoughts. We were so young back then when we were hanging out in San Francisco, and I only have good memories of our times together. I promise that I'll come out with Gene and we'll laugh and cry together again.

Love, Susan

Gail Tennyson Hicks

July 14, 2004

Dear Leilani,

I was so sorry to hear about Eric's death. You, the children, and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. One fond memory that stays in my mind is when you and Eric came to my 19th birthday party. Having the two of you there made the difference. In fact, I have nothing but fond memories of you, Eric, Andre, and "the good ole days." Please feel free to contact me if you need anything or just to say hello. May God bless you today and every day.

Trevelyn Lee

July 13, 2004

Eric,

Although I havent seen you in many many years, your presence has always remained in my heart as part of your extended family. I never got the chance to meet Imani and Tiger but since they are a part of your spirit I can only imagine that you must be proud of them. You will be missed because of the love you always freely gave. I will cherish the memories of us playing music together and you giving me free ice cream when you worked as the manager of IScream in San Francisco. Be proud you left a wonderful legacy in Leilani, Imani and Tiger and wherever you are I know that you are One in God forever and always.

Leilani,

I pray for you that you continue with your courage, strenghth, and unconditional love for your family. The Spirit of Eric Dean Thomas is living now and for all eternity with each and every life that he has touched. I bless him on his next journey and know that he is well in the hands of Spirit.

Love and Light,

Trevelyn

Keith and Illistine Banks

July 12, 2004

I was deeply saddened to hear about Eric's death. I met Eric at Herbert Hoover Jr. High; he was a very talented bass player and very intelligent young man. There are two fond and enjoyable memories I recall of Eric's life as a teenager--one is him playing the electric bass and the second is the smile on his face when he talked about Leilani, his high school sweetheart. My prayers are with you, Leilani, Imani, Tiger, Billy, and Maei.

Jeff Thomas

July 12, 2004

Eric,

What I did not get a chance to say on Saturday was that while we sometimes fought, as bothers sometimes want to do, I never once felt nothing but love from you. Our one memorable disagreement over delicate seasonings selections required in that “Pot of Chili” :) never changed your forgiving heart. And for that, I will always remember and love you.

Leilani

Over the coming days, weeks, months and years I make myself available to you, Imani, and Tiger. Someone will need a ride, help with homework or someone to play catch or jacks with. Vida and I are too close for you not to call on us. Our doors, arms and hearths are open.

Jen & Brian Cotten

July 12, 2004

Eric having to say goodbye to you this weekend was the hardest thing we have ever had to do. Our hearts hurt so badly for the loss of our dear friend. Eric we thank you for all you've taught us both in your life and now that your gone. You've taught us to live life to the fullest and to never take for granted that you will always have tomorrow. You've also taught us that friends are just as much family as blood relatives, and we are so greatful to have had you as part of our family. You will be greatly missed but never forgotten. You will always hold a special place in our hearts. We love you.

Our prayers go out to your family Leilonnie, Imani,and Tiger. We love them and will always be here for them.

All our love,

Ann Larkin

July 12, 2004

I met Leilani and Eric back in the good old days of Santa Cruz. Although many years had passed since the last time Eric and I spoke, his soul is one that can not be forgotten or faded by time. Leilani, you, Imani and Tiger are the essence of Eric's spirit and I send you much love.

DEBBIE TOSTEN

July 9, 2004

WE HAD JUST GOT TO KNOW YOUR FAMILY THROUGH THE POCKET LITTLE LEAGUE S.F.GIANTS WHERE TIGER AND MY GRANDSON KEVIN PLAYED TOGETHER. ERIC WAS A REAL NICE GUY WHO REALLY ADORED HIS FAMILY. ALWAYS WORRIED ABOUT US HAVING SHADE FOR OUR CHEERING GROUP AT THE PARK. HE WILL BE DEEPLY MISS BY ALL.

Dale Flournoy

July 9, 2004

Leilani and family,

My wife & I were so sorry to hear of Eric's passing. I have had the pleasure of working with Eric since he joined the Treasurer's Office as a fellow state employee with the Cal-Mortgage Loan Insurance Program. Eric represented the best of all those values we all hope to emulate. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and the children.

God bless, Dale Flournoy

Nancey and Tom Baker

July 9, 2004

Leilani, Imani and Tiger, Our thoughts and prayers are with you today and always. Although my e-mails were sporadic through the years, Tom and I would on occasion talk about the good old days in CA with my environmental friends and inevitably Eric's name would come up. We considered Eric classy, intelligent, funny, and the perfect soulmate for my friend Lani. I'm so happy that for his time on this Earth he was with you, Lani. You made his life complete, as he made yours complete. How lucky for the two of you to have had a love so pure, so gentle, and now so far-reaching. Would that we all could be so lucky. You remain in our hearts and thoughts. Love, the Bakers (Nancey, Tom, Joshua and Emily)

Lori Schuh

July 9, 2004

I never worked directly with Eric but had the pleasure of running into him every now and then in our building for many years. I can honestly say I never saw him without a smile on his face. His smile was contagous. I remember saying today that you couldn't help but smile around him. He had that positive effect on me. There wasn't a time that went by that he didn't have time to stop and ask me how my daughters were doing and comment on how adorable they are. I know how important his family was to him. I will miss his smile greatly. For those of us who had the privilage to work with or around him he will truly be missed. To his wife and kids, you are in my thoughts and prayers.

Windie Scott

July 9, 2004

To the Family of Eric Thomas

I worked with Eric as Deputy Controller for a short time, seeing him last on June 29, the day before he passed. Never, in my long career in state service have I encountered someone who exibited not just an obvious command of difficult subject matter, but whose

compassion and spirit added sheer joy to all around.

At that last meeting, Eric joked that his report included a request to give all his collegues a pay raise. Eric, you have given us much, much more and you will always be remembered.

Sincerest sympathy is extended to Eric's wife and family.

Julie Havelock

July 9, 2004

Dear Leilani, Imani and Tiger,

We've only been your neighbors for 4 short months and in that time we were honored to have known Eric Thomas. From the first week we moved in and we had dinner waiting for us, courtesy of the Thomas family; to the many days of smiles, waves and friendly chats with our new neighbor, Eric; our family knew we had moved in next to an exceptional family. I would see Eric most mornings as I set out to walk my dog as he was rushing off to work or coming back from a run. Eric always had a smile and a friendly greeting. He was always the first to say hello, how are you today? He had many stories of his mother's little white dog, similar to ours. He loved talking about fishing with Matt and playing baseball with the kids in the court. We are so very sorry for your loss of this sweet, friendly man who so obviously loved his family and friends. You have a special angel in heaven looking over you. Our prayers are with you. May God bless you and give you strength.

Barbara Lloyd

July 9, 2004

It is moving to read so many tributes to Eric, and gratifying to know that so many people were touched by Eric -- as I have been by knowing and working with him the past 5 1/2 years at the State Treasurer's Office. Eric was an ambassador, not just an employee. He was a star. He made everyone else's life better by being here, and it is clear to me now that was the way Eric lived his life outside of work, as well. We can honor his contributions and his memory best by living by his example, which is something that will be with me always. To Eric's family I offer another voice to the chorus singing his praises, and offering the comfort of a shared joy in having known him and a shared sorrow in his loss. May the memories be a blessing.

Berma Williams

July 9, 2004

Eric was one in a million. I met him many years ago when he started his career with the State Treasurer's Office, it was always a delight talking and laughing with him. My prayers goes out to the family in your time of sorrow.

Yolanda Harden Koukougnon

July 9, 2004

Lani, Imani, and Tiger, my prayers have been with you from the moment I heard of Eric's untimely passing. Eric is one of the sweetest souls I have ever met, and I am blessed that God arranged it so that our paths would cross. Theo and I love you very much, and we continue to send up prayers for you and the kids. May the Lord continue to give you strength and courage and meet all of your needs.

"But you, O LORD, are a shield around me, my glory, and the one who lifts my head high." (Ps 3:3)

Tammy Jackson

July 9, 2004

Leilani, my son's and I are sorry for your family's loss. The boys remembered that he would play basketball with them sometimes when he picked up the kids. Please let me knoow if we can do anything.

Bill Francis

July 9, 2004

Hearts break at ET’s untimely passing. Our prayers are with you Lani and family. Friends from the city - Marlon Blackwell, Alan Blackwell, Paul Williams, Bill Francis, Ian Reyes, Allan Wai, Osbornes, Kenny 'Hook' McKutcheon, and family and many other friends. San Francisco was our playground, Cole Valley, Grattan, Stanyan, Belvedere, Shrader, and 17th Streets. I went to Washington High School, he went to McAteer and then Drew Academy we remained close friends. ET taught me how to play the bass guitar. We were 18 to 20 years old. At that age he was the best funk bass guitar player in the city.

ET showed me a love of music and an unequivocal passion for harmony. From ‘Joe Sample’ to ‘Stanley Clark’ to ‘Ron Carter’ to ‘Pleasure’ ‘Barkays’ to ‘Larry Graham’ ‘Jeff Lorber Fusion’ to ‘AWB’, ET’s range was unlimited. The beauty of his spirit was that he never limited himself in anything he endeavored.

I'll miss you Eric.

John Marchione

July 9, 2004

Leilani and family,

I offer you my heart-felt sympathy for your loss. I am stunned about the news. I remember Eric for his laugh and playful nature at the UW GSPA. I will keep you and your family in my thoughts and prayers.

Larry Hammond

July 8, 2004

I first met Eric Thomas when I married into the University of Washington crew almost 10 years ago. Eric opened his home and his heart to me and extended every courtesy imaginable to make me feel welcome. We laughed, joked and shared our common interest. But when it came to golf, one of Eric’s passions, that was a different story. I don’t play golf, but I did with Eric. Whenever we were together, Eric would drag me out to the golf course at some ungodly hour of the morning. I would have a wonderful time because Eric didn’t care that I couldn’t play. But, I could putt pretty well and Eric would always encourage me by saying, “when you get the ball on the green, you're awesome”. When you were with Eric, you enjoyed almost anything.

He enjoyed being "out there",having a good time, whether it was on the golf course or almost anyplace else. He really enjoyed life and he wanted whoever he was with to enjoy it too. Eric made life special for all those around him.

There is an African Saying that says, “A day wasted is offensive to the soul”

A day with Eric Thomas was never wasted.

Cynthia Hanzalik

July 8, 2004

It was a joy to work with Eric. He spread his zest for life throughout the office with his magic tricks, his stories and his wonderful cooking. He was our “Deputy Dawg” We will dearly miss him.

Leilani the love that the two of you shared was so grand and shall remain in your heart forever. Two true soul mates that will be together again one day. I too am married to my highschool sweetheart and know no other love than my first. I have no wise words for you because I too would be lost but I have many prayers that the love you shared will keep you strong until you meet up with your sweetheart once again.

Don Sherman

July 8, 2004

I only knew Eric for the last 8 months, but with Eric, you didn't need much time before you concluded that this was a fun guy to be around. Magic tricks, funny jokes --even some awful jokes-- it was all in Eric's repertoire. Not to mention great advice on being a dad, a friend or just a good manager. Eric knew how to deliver advice without making it feel like it came from your parents. I will keep his smile in my heart always, for those days when I need a cheerful pick-me-up. In that small way, he will always be my gentle mentor.

Robi Argumedo

July 8, 2004

"E" is a wonderful man.. Wherever he is there is fun and happiness. I will miss him in our extended family of friends.. Who would have known that our great outing on fathers day would be the last opportunity we would have to hang out with this awesome man. We had many good times in the last 5 years..

*Camping with his Ghetto cooler, which consisted of a black hefty bag with all his food and drinks

*great Fathers day crawdad feasts.

*Crabbing trip with my son and teaching him to "rough it" eating lunch with newspapers as plates in the pouring rain and gusty wind.

*Great parties for any reason at all which often ended in dancing in the living room.

Memories of our numerous camping trips and Superbowl weekend at the cabin will be etched in my mind forever.. Our family will miss him so much.. How can this happen to such a wonderful person.. he is such an awesome man... he met no strangers.. His smile was so contagious. I will never forget how he talked with such enthusiasm and character..Always had an interesting story to tell.. This seems so unfare for us but now he can go and perform his Magic for the lord above.. Eric we love and miss you so much.. Lani know that we are still part of your family and we will ALWAYS be here for you and Emani and Tiger..

We love you...

Robi, Alen, Erick and Andreas

Leilani Ferrari

July 8, 2004

Thank you all for the kind words about my best friend, my love of my life, my true angel. I know some of you all too well :) and some of you I have never met but I hope that each of you knew the true joy of E's spirit for life, love and happiness. Although 28 years with him was not enough, I am blessed to have known, loved and cherished such a pure soul, my angel, my best friend is gone. Cherish your loved ones, your families and please live life to the fullest and reach for your dreams. He would want each of you to do that. Peace and Blessings to you and yours. Say a prayer for Me, Imani and Tiger!

Eric "Marathon Man" at home December 2003

July 7, 2004

HEATHER (TELL)STARLING

July 7, 2004

To the Thomas Family where life seems dark have faith. God will show a light. Have mercy on all hearts that hurt. In God name I pray for you all

Kurtis Banchero

July 7, 2004

I knew Eric in several facets; he was my supervisor during service with California Health Facilities and Education Financing Authorities, he was my competitor in our tennis matches, a team-mate in our joint excursion to recapture youth on an adult full-contact football team, and most of all, and forever, Eric was my friend. His smile brightened a room and his humor brightened my life. Though I moved to another location within state service, each time I ran into Eric was an occasion of smiles and laughter. During CHFFA/CEFA's employee meetings, it was near certain that Eric would demonstrate his latest magic trick... Eric, your real magic was in your personality. You are missed my friend. To Lalani and the children, my prayers for your peace in this are constant.

Serge DABOIKO

July 7, 2004

I did not had the chance to meet Eric. But I know by here that he knew me. Now, when I see his photo + reactions right there on that website, I have to admit that with his departure, I am losing a lot from not having the chance to meet him before.

Risa and I told about him often. And just to see how he was protective to her, I can only guess the pain of Lani and children...

I have nothing else but those words to try to comfort them: As children of God, we use to say in the Holy Father prayer: may your will be upon us... sometimes that will is hard to accept... even unjust, crual... But we should rely on God in any situation. And keep the faith that Eric is now safe and peaceful near Him. May God bless Eric and may He keep his mighty hand on his family. once again, sincere condoleances.

G. Chris Brown

July 7, 2004

Eric and I have been friends since he first arrived at UCSC. His friends brought him to meet me, "the real cool brother from Watts." I was the big brother; I showed Eric and his cohorts the campus, the ropes and inner workings at UCSC and the city of Santa Cruz. Eric reminded me of myself. He was intelligent, loved UCSC, was in a serious and long term relationship, which produced a marriage and two beautiful children.

I preceded Eric on The Alumni Association Council and had the pleasure of representing Oakes College with him also. I have written all of this to say that when I heard of his passing, it was like a part of me was taken away. Eric was like my little brother, family. I will miss him.

Leilani, Tiger and Amani, no one can ever replace Eric. He was "large" and will be sorely missed.

Nora, Gregory, Truman and I are praying for you and your family. God bless you.

Rick Bias

July 6, 2004

Eric and I were among the new crop of brothers entering UCSC back in the fall of 1980. There weren't many of us and that feeling of isolation would later prove to be the substance that bound us together not just during our years at UCSC but in all the years that followed. Little explanation is needed to summon that powerful connection we enjoy with one another as life carries us all toward our different paths, different destinies. Though nearly a quarter century has passed since that 1980s group entered the fold, it takes but a moment's reflection on life as it was then, when as individuals we were away from home but as a group we learned to take comfort in the knowledge that we were among family and no matter how many years may pass these family ties would never be broken. We've lost a brother most dear to our hearts, most dear to mine. But my faith tells me he is not lost rather his task here is simply complete. And as hard as it may be to those of us who still have work to do here on this earth, we will yet hear his contagious laughter, gaze upon his warm embracing smile, and be loved by his simple faith in good fellowship. ET do me a favor? When my work is done here be there among the first faces I see, have the domino table ready so I can spank you so more, thumb some cords on that base of yours; for you see nothing could make my transition more comforting than to witness reflections of some of the happiest days of my life. Until then my brother, enjoy your reward, your work is done, and someday I'll be looking for you in the light!

Blessings,

Rick Bias

Heather Parish

July 6, 2004

I am a firm believer in the Eternal Spirit, and that we, as individual souls and manifestations of this Eternal Spirit, never "die". Death is a "transition" to another spiritual plane and I feel Eric's spirit with us still. Eric is one of the most selfless, loving and compassionate people I have ever known. The love and respect I have for him, his wife and family is immense and always will be. I am so honored to have known him and Lani for the past 14 years - they are truly among my closest friends. And I also believe in reincarnation, so I won't be surprised to meet someone in the future who is actually Eric in his next life (and possibly mine)! Until we meet again my friend...love and miss you dearly.

Kevin Hawkins

July 6, 2004

Like with so many, ET was a positive influence during my early years at UCSC. Our hearts and prayers go out to Leilani and the family during this time of sorrow...we were truly blessed and privileged to call him a "friend"...

Douglas Rivlin

July 6, 2004

I also met ET at Oakes College at UCSC and his friendship, good humor, and intelligence made a lasting impression on me and so many of our friends. ET, his wife Lani, and their two brilliant children attended my wedding only three months ago, which made for a warm and fun reunion. Sadly, many of us will gather again soon to wish our brother well and wish his family strength on a much more solemn occasion that is occurring decades too soon. We will miss you, ET.

Steven Jung

July 6, 2004

I was privileged to have been able to serve with Eric on the UC Santa Cruz Alumni Association Council. Eric was unquestionably one of the nicest, most decent people I know, and he brought out the best in those around him. To lose someone like Eric at such a young age is a terrible shock. I hope his family will take comfort in knowing that the world is a better place because Eric was here, that he touched many lives and left many friends. He will certainly be missed greatly.

Bonnie Sherwood

July 6, 2004

I was at my husband's retirement reception on Tuesday, June 29th, at the State Treasurer's Office. Eric walked up to me and said "I want to introduce myself to you and tell you that I was at your husband's retirement party at Valley Hi Country Club. I heard you speak about your husband (Bill Sherwood)- something you said that night touched me.. it was "Don't cry because it is over..instead, smile because it happened!" Eric told me how much that moved him and that he had used the phrase at a retirement party just last weekend. We then stood and talked about life .. how precious each and every day is and that we have to let go sometimes when it is not easy...but we should always remember the good times and smile!! I know that we had a connection that day and I will never forget my conversation with Eric - for he has touched my heart too!! God bless his family - try not to cry..please try to smile!

Sharif Traylor

July 6, 2004

I have known Eric Thomas, or ET as many of his friends call him, since we were undergrads at UCSC. From the moment I met him, ET was a "shining" light who always brought positive "optimism," thoughts and vibes to every situation. It was ET, a most dedicated Alumnus, who inspired me to give back to UCSC by joining the Alumni Assoc. Council. I will always remember his friendship, and service and dedication to UCSC and every cause he embraced.

Michael Twombly

July 5, 2004

Eric and I served together on the UCSC Alumni Council, and spent many hours together driving from Sacramento to Santa Cruz and back again, always talking, talking, talking-mostly about his love for his wife and children. I cannot believe this light has gone out of our lives.

LizAnne Jensen

July 5, 2004

I was greatly saddened to hear of Eric's untimely passing. He was a source of inspiration to me and a wonderful role model, not to mention a kind and caring man. His presence will be missed by many, many people from all walks of life. My heartfelt condolences go out to his family. I will remember him always.....

Flora Thomas

July 5, 2004

May God bless your family. Keeping you in prayer. Flora Thomas, member of Compassion Ministries at Riverside Wesleyan.

Risa Hernandez

July 4, 2004

The nicest man on the planet has made his transition to the next, better place. I, like so many, love and miss Eric very deeply. He remains our sunshine...each of us will glimmer forever for having him in our lives. Peace and Blessings to you "E" and to Lani, Tiger and Imani...you know you are my heart. Don't forget that God is with you and Eric is always there too. I love you.

Robert Weiner

July 4, 2004

I am still struck dumb by Eric's passing. I served with Eric on the UCSC alumni council for 6 years. He was such a vital presence, so warm, engaged, passionate, and active. I can't believe he's gone.

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