Eric Santiago Carranza, age 35, passed away peacefully surrounded by family and friends on August 27, 2026, following a courageous battle with cancer. He was born on February 3, 1991, in Los Angeles, California. Eric served in the Indiana Air National Guard at the 122nd Fighter Wing. He started his career in 2020 as a Tactical Aircraft Mechanic, working on the A-10C “Warthog” then transitioned to a Federal Technician position as an Aerospace Propulsion Mechanic on the F-16 “Falcon.” He also held his Airframe and Power Plant license working on commercial Aircraft. Staff Sergeant Carranza earned many awards and decorations, including being awarded the 2025 MXS Maintainer of the Year.
Eric was an avid Green Bay Packers fan. In his free time, he enjoyed watching football and working on cars, specifically his ‘91 Integra. He also enjoyed spending time with his family and friends, going to car shows, giving car and life advice to his nephews, and playing jokes on his father-in-law. Eric loved traveling and taking on adventures with his wife, spoiling his kids, and he loved the life they shared as a family with their dog, Isley.
Eric will be remembered by family and friends for his devotion to Elizabeth- his one true love, the love and pride he had for his wife and children, his generous heart, and his willingness to help others. He created a memorable legacy for his children, and he will be deeply missed by all the hearts that he touched in his lifetime.
Eric is survived by his beloved wife, Elizabeth Cervantes; their children, Andres and Annalise Carranza; siblings, Edgar (Patricia) Zuleta of Fillmore, CA, Milton (Merlyn) Zuleta of South Bend, IN, Edwin (Tessa) Carranza of Camarillo, CA; half siblings, Michelle and Joshua Carranza of Fontana, CA; and his father, Santiago (Glenda) Carranza.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Rosa Estrada, and sister, Elidad Pineda.
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, September 2, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. and Thursday, September 3, 2026 from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Greenlawn Funeral Home, 6750 Covington Rd, Fort Wayne, IN, 46804. A funeral service will follow at 1:00 p.m. on September 3, 2026, at Greenlawn Funeral Home with Pastor Fred Staton officiating.
Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society in Eric’s honor.
