Eric Peter Theodore Samtleben, a remarkable individual with an insatiable zest for life, passed away unexpectedly on August 8, 2024, at the age of 31. Born on November 6, 1993, Eric entered the world with an undeniable energy that would define his entire life. From the moment he arrived—nearly making his grand entrance in the front seat of a car on the way to Markham Stouffville Hospital—it was clear that Eric was destined to leave a lasting impact on those around him.
As a child, Eric was constantly in motion, driven by a desire to keep up with his older brother and conquer new challenges. By the age of twenty-two months, he was already beginning to skate, and by four, he was playing hockey with a level of skill that belied his young age.
His enthusiasm for hockey was so profound that he proudly showed off his first set of gear to neighbors in the middle of a scorching July day. Eric’s childhood was marked by an adventurous spirit, a love for sports, and an infectious joy that brought laughter and happiness to those around him.
Eric’s passion for sports extended far beyond childhood. He became an exceptional athlete and a fierce competitor, excelling in multiple disciplines. As a teenager and young adult, Eric played junior hockey, eventually transitioning to Muay Thai, where he competed professionally.
More recently, he embraced the challenge of ultra-distance running, participating in races as long as 100 kilometers. His dedication to his community was evident when he organized a 100-kilometer charity race during the COVID-19 pandemic to raise funds for the Peterborough food bank.
Eric’s work ethic was unparalleled. From a young age, he took on various summer jobs, including driving garbage trucks, lifeguarding, landscaping, and sales. He was known for his willingness to tackle long, demanding shifts, often waking up at 5:30 a.m. to start his day. His determination and resilience were evident in every endeavor he pursued, from his athletic achievements to his professional work.
Eric was not only a gifted athlete but also a highly intelligent individual with a deep commitment to education. Though his academic journey started with some challenges, Eric’s grades soared as he discovered the power of hard work and perseverance.
