Eric Vincent Barterian, aged 65 of St. Clair Shores, Michigan, went home to be with Jesus on Saturday, October 30, 2021, at 9:30am while surrounded by his family.

More than anything, Eric loved his family. And more than anything, his family loved him. He leaves behind his loving and devoted wife of 39 years, Eleanor Barterian, their children Sarah Apczynski and Alen, Renee (Dan) Lenn, Leah (Greg) Reblin, Joshua (Meredith) Giordano, his siblings Paulette Barterian, Greg (Linda) Barterian, Jerry (Andrea) Barterian, Kenny (Sue) Barterian, his 11 grandchildren who adored him: Caleb (Kate), Cameron (Brook), Josiah, Sydney, Sophia, Serena, Samantha, Cosette, Joshua, Lexy, Chris, and his dog, Bridger. 

Eric was a retired Detroit Firefighter and a longstanding employee of the Macomb Intermediate School District. He loved gardening, camping, going to estate sales, trips to Eastern Market, and hummus from Kabob House. He had seen every episode of Star Trek: The Next Generation and Seinfeld, and he always cried when watching The Green Mile. He also loved watching the Detroit Lions just so he could tease his sons about how bad they are.

He spent his life being an inspiration and example to others, volunteering as a Sunday school teacher, church leader, youth group chaperone, and tutor, as well as participating in and leading numerous mission trips both stateside and internationally. He loved his children and grandchildren unconditionally and completely and was also a father figure to many others throughout the years. 

Before he passed, Eric told his family that he did not want to be mourned. Instead, he wanted to be remembered and celebrated. Whenever you watch the Lions lose, visit Eastern Market in Detroit, or eat some delicious hummus, think of Eric. 

A memorial service will be held at Grace Community Church, 21001 Moross Rd, Detroit, MI 48236, on Friday, November 5th at 6pm. All are welcome to join and celebrate his life. 

In lieu of flowers, the family is asking for donations that will be used for memorial benches in some of Eric’s favorite places. Any additional donations will be used to bless some of his favorite local small businesses and nonprofits.