A beloved father, loyal friend and avid outdoorsman passed away unexpectedly on Oct. 31, 2019. Eric Meng was born Feb. 18, 1951 in Scotia. He was raised by his loving mother Shila Meng and grew up with his older sister Pat and cousins Carol and Nyla. Eric lived the entirety of his life in Humboldt County, a place that he truly loved.

Eric attended Ferndale High School and graduated in the class of 1969. During his high school years, he was known for his athletic ability as #66 on the Wildcat Football team. He was a star athlete and his love of the sport became lifelong. Along with being team captain he received multiple achievement awards. Later in life, he was proud and found great joy in his grandsons’ and great-nephews’ participation in Wildcat Football.

Soon after high school, Eric enlisted in the Army and was deployed to Vietnam. He served 1970-1973 in 101 Airborne as a helicopter mechanic. During this time Eric received the Bronze Star for his service. He remained in the reserves until 1976. It was not until the last years of his life that he began to share with his family about his time in the military. His family is grateful to have these stories and honor his memory as a veteran.

Eric spent his adult life working as a logger until the age of 62. This career suited him well for his love of the outdoors. He found great joy as an avid fisherman, hunter and backpacker. He had a natural green thumb and could grow just about anything. During his life he enjoyed collecting shells, stones, fossils and artifacts as well as learning about history and natural science. His knowledge of nature and his love for it was a large part of who he was and how he lived. “Spung”, as he was known by many, could always be found to have a loyal dog at his side and Olympia beer in his hand. Eric was a passionate and devoted Oakland Raiders fan. Win or loose (most often it was the latter) he cheered, cursed and paced through every Sunday. Eric lived by his own rules and a life of his own choosing. Those who were lucky enough to call him a friend or family enjoyed his great fisherman tales, skill to fix and tinker with anything and his unforgettably assortment of curse words.

The only thing that could out measure his infamous stubbornness was the enormity of his heart. Eric has left behind a family who loves and misses his dearly. He is survived by his daughters Regina Kanen (Darren Kanen) & Cassi Meng, grandchildren Tony, Jacob, Kylee & Liam, sister Patricia Cowan & cousin Carol Stewart, along with their families, and by a vast number of lifelong friends who he treasured.

Eric’s daughters extend an invitation to anyone who would like to enjoy a beer, watch some football and share a story about Eric to stop by the Ferndale Palace on Dec. 22 from 2-5 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Ferndale High Booster Club. All contributions in Eric’s name will be designated for the high school football program. Ferndale Wildcat Booster Club / PO Box 1332 / Ferndale, CA 95536.

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The obituary above was submitted on behalf of Eric Meng’s loved ones. The Lost Coast Outpost runs obituaries of Humboldt County residents at no charge. See guidelines here.