Many of you now know that my family lost my brother Eric Pabian yesterday.  After years of battling, he succumbed to his addiction; a story that has become all too common to our communities, family members and loved ones.

Eric was the most caring, compassionate and family-oriented person that I have ever known.  He was always willing to offer a helping hand or give a kind, uplifting word.  He was the extremely caring father of his two sons Parker and Teddy and his step-daughter Brianna, whether it be by coaching their various sports teams, or throwing catch with them for endless hours.

Unfortunately, Eric recently lost his job due to his company filing for bankruptcy, leaving very little funds for his final expenses.  Moreover, as our loss was sudden and unexpected, no final arrangements had been pre-planned.  Our whole family has been left to attempt to pull together a final farewell that is fitting for this man and the example that he leaves behind, and to give my niece and nephews, as well as all of Eric's friends and family a chance to say a proper goodbye.

We all appreciate any generosity that you might be able to show our family in this very difficult time.  All funds donated will be used for Eric's final expenses with any leftover funds being used to help his children.