Eric Stemmer
Eric Stemmer...
Eric was a warm, vibrant person full of kindness, teasing, and love. Eric leaves behind his adoring wife, his three beloved children, his loving mother, father, two sisters, his sweet nieces and nephew and a cherished circle of family in-laws, extended family and friends who will forever hold his memory close to their hearts. Born in Germany, Eric moved to Canada with his family when he was just one year old. As the second oldest of four siblings in a lively and busy household, he grew up surrounded by love, laughter, and endless adventure. His childhood was filled with excitement, embarking on imaginative quests with his siblings, dirt biking adventures with his younger brother and father, and creating precious memories and a closeness that would last a lifetime. Eric embraced life with boundless curiosity and energy. His days were woven with love, play, and unforgettable experiences that shaped the caring and spirited person he would become.
Eric met Katie in his early twenties, and from the moment their paths intertwined, their love blossomed into something extraordinary. Together, they built a life rich with fun and exhilarating adventures, whether camping, exploring new places, or riding Eric's Harley. There were countless golden moments spent laughing until their stomachs hurt, chasing dreams side by side, and creating a bond that could weather any storm. Their love was not just felt but lived fully, woven into every experience, every embrace, and every memory that will remain forever in Katie’s heart.
Eric loved being a dad and showing his little girls all the beauty and fun in the world. He loved being a girl dad, eagerly anticipating the days when he could teach them to ride dirt bikes, cast a fishing line, and cheer them on from the front row at every performance they chose to pursue. He never knew he would also end up with a beautiful little boy. Though Eric’s time as a father was far too short, the love, laughter, and kindness he shared with his two sweet little girls will be treasured and carried forward, woven into their lives and passed down to their baby brother. His presence will live on through the stories they tell, the times spent playing and laughing, the days spent adventuring, and the warmth he gave. Their unconditional love for their dad will remain forever etched in their hearts.
Message from Eric's loved one
Eric was my heart, my safe place, and my greatest love. Every part of me misses him. He made the world feel lighter; his laughter could light up even the darkest days. I long for more time, more memories, more chances to tell him how deeply he is loved. But even in his absence, his love is still here, living in our children, in every beautiful thing that reminds me of him. I miss him with everything I am, and I always will.
Eric, I will keep dancing with our babies, though missing you in every song.
—KS
Help us continue to Rise
As a publicly funded and donation-led non-profit initiative, every effort was made to ensure the maximum amount of dollars went directly to support the actual construction of the gardens. However, to keep the site in the same condition it was at the time of unveiling and to keep the memorial's legacy alive, constant resources need to be allocated to its ongoing maintenance.
Further, the Rise Memorial Foundation needs to retain some contingency monies to fund replacement costs in the unfortunate event of vandalism or damage. Lastly, future projects and our digital assets, like this website, come with a cost.
If you want to contribute to the Rise Memorial Foundation’s endowment, please get in touch with the Board of Directors at contact@risememorial.com.