Eric Matthew Christian Oct. 1, 1959 – Aug. 12, 2021

It is with great sadness we announce the passing of Eric Matthew Christian after a struggle with Lewy body dementia.

Eric was born Oct. 1, 1959, to Loren and Ramona Christian of Hilmar. Eric was raised in Hilmar and was a graduate of Hilmar High School, Modesto Junior College and was a Certified Purchasing Manager (CPM). Eric worked at Armour, Butterball and Conagra in Turlock, Foster Farms and Beckman Coulter in Porterville, and finished his work at Diestel

Turkey in Sonora. He was a hard worker and gave his best to each company.

Eric loved baseball and golf and played both up until his illness. He was a fan of the San Francisco Giants and 49ers. He enjoyed the annual Father/ Sons/grandsons’ trips to Lake Tahoe and almost always won the longest drive and closest-to-thehole contests with his brothers and nephew. He also was a hot shot horseshoe player at the old CARP events in Hilmar. He was a prankster and always a participant in the fork-handle-stuck-in the-cake prank at brothers’ birthday celebrations.

Eric is survived by his mother, Ramona Christian; his wife, Martha Christian; sons, Evan and Ryan Christian; brothers, Mark (Linda), Brad (Christie), and Colin (Gloriann) Christian; and many nephews and nieces. He was predeceased by his grandparents and his father, Loren Christian.

Eric will be greatly missed. He should have had many more years of life to enjoy. His passing is truly sad. May he rest in peace.

The family would like to thank Sonora Adventist hospice for all their wonderful help and support during this difficult time.

A private family burial has been held at Turlock Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Adventist Health Hospice Sonora at https:// www. adventisthealth. org/ home- care- services/ donate/#bbpanel and please select Adventist Health Hospice – Sonora.