Eric was a proud Navy man who held his time in the service close to his heart. A finish carpenter by trade, he later went into business for himself and ran a successful appliance installation company for over 50 years. Eric was deeply committed to mentoring young people, serving as a football and wrestling coach, and earning induction into the Michigan Wrestling Hall of Fame.
Eric believed strongly in spiritual growth and the power of PMA - Positive Mental Attitude, which he passionately shared with his students. Eric was also a dedicated Mason in the City of Berkley for 53 years. Above all else, he loved his family, especially his grandchildren, and made it a priority to attend every event and milestone in their lives.
Eric was a devoted husband for 61 years to Jacquelynn A. Kopsch; loving father to Deborah A. (Steven) Jones and Thomas (Christina) Kopsch; cherished grandfather to Elizabeth (Eric) Harburn, Ian, Ireland, Connor, Ronan, Thomas, and Trevor; dearest brother to Carolee, the late Patricia, the late Kay, and the late James.
A visitation will be held at Edward Swanson & Son Funeral Home, located at 30351 Dequindre Road, Madison Heights, MI 48071, on February 5, 2026, from 3:00 pm to 8:00 pm.
The in-state service will take place at Our Lady Queen of Martyrs School, 32340 Pierce St, Beverly Hills, MI 48025, on February 6, 2026, from 10:30 am until the time of the funeral mass at 11:00 am.
Immediately following the funeral mass, Eric will be laid to rest at White Chapel Memorial Park Cemetery, 621 W Long Lake Rd, Troy, MI 48098.
