Eric Charles Pitstick, born June 19, 1964, entered eternal life on October 9, 2026 after a lengthy stay at Park Ridge Healthcare Center in Park Ridge, IL.
Immediate family members surviving him include his mother, Bette, his sisters, Colette Stremlau (Mike), Christine Watson, and Cheri Pitstick (Eric Reynolds), his nieces, Elissa Roos, Sara Auran, Kelly Watson, and his nephew Connor Watson. He is predeceased by his father, Edwin. Eric was also fortunate to have had grandparents, and many aunts and uncles, cousins, and friends throughout his life.
Eric had an amiable, happy, outgoing personality. An instant friend, a handshake, and “Hi, I’m Eric”! No matter where we went, someone always knew Eric. He was a sweet, loving child with a great sense of humor. He and his sisters shared many laughs over his good-natured teasing and pranks.
As a youngster, Eric was a good swimmer and spent many happy days at Pitstick Beach. One day, he unfortunately knocked out his two front teeth when jumping backwards off the raft’s diving board, something he often talked about. Eric enjoyed family beach vacations and family excursions on the Illinois River in his dad’s boat. Eric loved sports. He was especially good at shooting baskets and throwing baseballs. He participated in the Special Olympics, winning numerous medals.
Eric’s elementary school years were spent at the Lighted Way in LaSalle. He then attended Ottawa Twp. High School, where he was enrolled in the Special Education program. He was so proud to be an Ottawa Pirate! After graduating from high school, Eric resided at Sullivan House and worked at Friendship Village. The special bond that Eric had with people who worked with him at Sullvan House and Friendship Village is a testament to the loving care that he received there. He had many friends at both Sullivan House and Friendship Village, and his many years there were filled with love and laughter.
On weekends, he helped out at Pitstick Pavilion. He loved teasing the staff and, of course, getting ice cream after a good night’s work. At group picnics, he enjoyed acting as “chef”, helping his dad grill burgers.
Big events in Eric’s life were always his birthday and Christmas, where he wore his Santa hat and passed out presents with a booming “Ho Ho Ho”! Some of Eric’s favorite things were dancing, listening to music, watching videos, and of course,
pretty girls. He was a super fan of Garth Brooks, Farrah Fawcett, and Star Trek.
Eric was deeply loved by his family and will be forever in our hearts. He will be sorely missed, but knowing he is with our Lord in Heaven brings us comfort.
A private family service will be held. A gathering to celebrate Eric’s life will be announced at a future date.