Eric C. Wesner

Wesner, Eric (“Rick”) Christopher passed through the Gates of Heaven on Thursday, October 24th 2013. Rick was born on March 18, 1948 to the late Elizabeth Boyle Wesner and Michael A. Wesner in Johnstown, PA. He grew up in Pittsburgh, PA where he attended South Hills Catholic H.S. He played basketball, ran track, and held the school’s high jump record. In 1970, Rick married the love of his life, Diane Spardy. He graduated from Duquesne University in 1971 with a degree in marketing and would later earn an Associate’s Degree in Civil Engineering from Allegheny Community College. Later studies were also rewarded with multiple accreditations from Sales & Marketing Executives International. He began his career working with the Catholic Cemeteries Association of the Diocese of Pittsburgh. As his career developed in the death care industry, he was driven to perform his life’s work in a way that was his own. In 1978 he founded E. C. Wesner Associates, a successful consulting practice that is still run by his family today. His endless enthusiasm for sales and marketing led him to be a prominent industry speaker, instructor and pioneer in the methods of consumer database marketing. His passion to train and manage a sales team will prove to be his professional legacy. His influence made a positive difference in the lives of many and he earned the mutual respect and affection of clients and peers across his industry. His legacy to his family will be the memories of a dedicated and loving husband and father who will be sorely missed.

Rick is survived by his wife of 43 years Diane (Spardy), and their three sons Chris, Jeff (Tami) and Ryan (Sonya) and three grandchildren. Also left behind are his sisters, Mary (Lollie) Streiff and Patricia Gill and his brother Michael Wesner and a large extended family.

Friends & family will be received Monday, October 28, 2013, 2:00 – 4:00 & 6:00 – 8:0pm at Kraeer Funeral Home & Cremation Center, 1655 University Drive, Coral Springs. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Tuesday, October 29, 2013, 10:00am at St. Andrew Catholic Church, 9950 NW 29th Street, Coral Springs. Entombment to immediately follow at Queen of Heaven Cemetery, North Lauderdale.