Eric H. Eberhard
September 10, 1935 - November 19, 2025
Eric was born on September 10, 1935 in the Eastern part of Germany, where 7 of his childhood years were spent in a war-torn country. In 1949 his family was able to immigrate to the United States and settle in the Los Angeles area, where eventually they were able to build a new life.
After graduating from UCLA, Eric started a career in aerospace at the McDonnell Douglas Corp., which in 1974 led to a temporary assignment of a Space Shuttle related project in the city of Bremen, Germany, where he met his future wife, Christine, a true match made in heaven. After returning to Southern California in 1978, Downey became their home for 47 years, where they raised their 2 children, Mark and Monica. There were countless family gatherings around the dining table, as well as hosting friends from Germany and South Africa, and traveling extensively throughout portions of the Western United States and Canada. His 5 grandchildren were his pride and joy, and he loved taking them on little field trips, which, needless to say, were often space related. The Columbia Memorial Space Center right here in Downey was one of their favorites.
Eric’s declining health led him to spend the last 3 years in a wonderful small Care Home, where on November 19, 2025 his life ended peacefully, with his family by his side. He was preceded in death by his parents, Frida and Hermann, as well as his brothers Vern and Hans. He leaves behind his wife of 51 years, Christine, his son Mark (Martina), daughter Monica (Klaus), his 5 grandchildren, Noah, Kai, Amelie, Lukas and Finn, as well as family and friends. Throughout his life, Eric was of a serious and contemplating nature, however, he delighted everybody with his dry sense of humor.
A celebration of his life will take place on Saturday, December 20, 2025 at 11:00 am, at Downey United Methodist Church, 10801 Downey Ave, Downey CA 90241.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Alzheimer’s Association or any charity of your choice.