I was shocked and saddened to learn of the sudden and distressing passing of Eric. As Principal of Middleton Grange School from 1999 to 2010 I had regular opportunity to enjoy Eric’s company and observe his love of family, support of the school and the way he conducted his life in general. A man of relatively few words, I always appreciated our warm conversations. The wider family have a deep association with the school for which the school has always been, and will continue to be, deeply grateful. Eric and others in the family did contract work for the school from time to time. The relationship was highly professional, and the work of a high standard. Please know that I stand among a multitude privileged to have enjoyed sharing life with Eric. Prayers and aroha are extended to you all

Posted by Mark & Anne Larson on March 10, 2026

Dear Yvonne and Family It was a big shock to hear of the sudden passing of Eric. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. May God comfort you and the family in this difficult time With love Arnold and Carla Kaijser.

Posted by Arnold and Carla Kaijser on February 24, 2026

Dear Yvonne and Family, Our hearts go out to you and the family with the death of Erik. Such a big shock for you all. At times like this we often don't understand God's ways, yet we know His ways are perfect and we lean on Him. May God comfort you and the family through the difficult times ahead. We will be with you in thoughts and prayers. With Christian love, John and Harriet Haverland

Posted by John and Harriet Haverland on February 21, 2026

Yvonne and precious family. Such sad news but he is in the presence of our Lord!! Hold tight to the memories!! Hugs and prayers from Holyrood, Ontario 🇨🇦

Posted by Wendy Langendoen Ward on February 21, 2026

It was with great shock and grief we heard of Eric's passing. Too soon. Too sudden. A hardworking family man of faith. Generous spirited, and with a unique sense of humour and love for life, and a great love for Eyvonne, his children, grandchildren, friends and his Saviour. It was a blessing to celebrate together the wedding of Luke and Shiloh and get to know you and Eyvonne a bit more during that time Eric. We grieve your passing and rejoice in your Salvation, with the assurance by the promise of God, who can not lie, that you are with our Saviour, Jesus Christ, the Saviour of all those who trust in Him. Our love prayers and hearts go out to all family and friends left behind. Praying that God's love is felt enveloping all who grieve, and that in accordance with Eric's wishes, no doubt, that all will draw closer to Jesus through this time of his passing. With love, & prayer. Carl & Melanie Bromley. (Family by marriage).

Posted by Carl & Melanie Bromley. on February 21, 2026

Dear Yvonne, your children and grandchildren. I grew up with Eric in the Reformed of Christchurch, Sunday School, catechism, cadets. Eric and I plus 8 others did our profession of faith together. Both Eric and loved singing and sang together in the various choirs. Yvonne you and Eric chose the same wedding txt that Arie and I chose when we got married. May your wedding text Proverbs 3:5&6 help you and your family in this time of much sadness as you mourn the loss of your beloved Eric, father and grandfather. Both Arie and I will be at Eric’s thanksgiving service. Eric enjoy your singing in the Heavenly Choir.

Posted by Anonymous on February 20, 2026

To Yvonne and family, our sincere condolences to you all at the sudden transition of Eric to glory. We only knew Eric a little, but loved his smile as we came into church at Bishopdale, and his love for Jesus his Saviour and Lord, his family and his church family at Bishopdale Reformed Church. John also loved the chats with him at “chats and chips” at Papanui Club. We pray that as you grieve, you may remember to promises of Jesus, that even though his eyes have closed in death, he lives forever with his victorious Saviour and we look forward to the day when we shall meet again. Come quickly Lord Jesus, come quickly. Trudy and John Zuidema.

Posted by Trudy & John Zuidema on February 20, 2026