Eric Richard Berry, 37, met an untimely death, May 16, 2008, near Kalispell. Eric was born Jan. 9, 1971, in Seattle, to Sally and Kenneth Berry, and was raised in Seattle with his older brother, Ken.

He graduated from Ballard High School in 1989 and soon married his high school sweetheart, Callie.

His greatest joys came with the birth of his three beautiful children, Dane, Sierra and Olivia, whom he loved dearly. He shared his passion for life with each one of them. They will miss their father very much.

Eric's natural love of adventure brought him to the great outdoors, whether it was guiding on the Rogue River, backpacking in the Cascades, or fly fishing in Montana. He soaked up life with a smile.

Eric eventually moved to the Flathead Valley, under the great rolling sky he loved so much. He was passionate about life, an artist in the fullest sense, breathing creativity into everything he touched.

He is also remembered for his hospitality as an amazing cook and a wonderful host. People were drawn to his positive attitude.

Eric maintained a wonderful hope for the future and cultivated a deep love for his creator, Jehovah God. He loved to talk with others about his hope and encouraged many with the Bible truths he held so close.

"We look forward to welcoming back our dear friend in the resurrection promised in the Bible."

Eric is survived by his children, Dane, Sierra and Olivia Berry; father, Kenneth Berry; mother, Araceli Grech; brother, Kenneth Berry Jr.; and numerous relatives in the Northwest.

A memorial service will be held at 3 p.m. Thursday, May 22, at the Flathead County Fairgrounds in Kalispell.