Eric Robert Mallard, 25, of Escanaba, MI, passed away unexpectedly at his home on March 25, 2024, one day after celebrating his 25th birthday.
Eric was born on March 24, 1999 in Manistique, MI to Scott and Julie Mallard, and moved to Escanaba when he was 2 years old. He turned a childhood love of playing with trucks and his “machines” into a career as a heavy equipment mechanic, primarily with Ponsse North America. His job at Ponsse began as a work-study program when he was in high school. After high school, he moved to Florida for a short time and worked at Ring Power Corporation servicing Caterpillar equipment. When he came back to the U.P., he eventually returned to Ponsse. His coworkers there were among his closest friends, and he was excited about a promising, long-term future with the company.
Eric loved being in the woods, riding his side-by-side with friends, going to camp, and enjoying the U.P.’s natural beauty.
He had a smile that would light up a room. He was a loyal friend who always had a listening ear when someone was in need. He loved his family and friends and had a special bond with his sister.
In addition to his parents, Eric is survived by his sister, Kristin (Alex Arseneau); grandmother, Margie Stockton; aunt, June (Jeff) Hooper; girlfriend, Lucy Sliva and many great aunts, great uncles and cousins.
Danielle Gestwicki - Escanaba, Mi
Sending love and prayers from the Gestwicki family
Debra Jankovich - Lake Orion, MI
Sending our sincere condolences for your loss. We will be keeping your family in our thoughts and prayers.
The Jankovich family.
Virginia Rosenfeldt and Dylan Rosenfeldt - Melbourne Beach and Saukville, WI , FL
Julie, Eric was a lovely person, prayers for you and your family. Remembering you in our thoughts and prayers. Virginia and Dylan
Joan L Spainhower - Tallahassee, FL
I never got to meet you personally, but I have known about you most of your life. You brought great joy and much love to your family and have been a special person in their lives. You will be missed. My prayers for and condolences to your entire family and circle of friends. Much Love.
Mary Beth Bergeron - Gladstone, MI
Dear Julie–
I am so very sorry to hear about your dear son, Eric. It sounds as though he was a wonderful son, brother and friend. I hold you in thoughts and prayer.
Debra Jankovich - Lake Orion, MI
We are so incredibly sorry for your loss, Julie! You and your family will continue to be in our thoughts and prayers!
The Jankovich family.
Donna Nash - Escanaba, MI
Sending our heartfelt condolences for your loss of your beautiful son. Our prayers and thoughts will be with you.
Gary and Donna Nash
B Kliment - Citrus Heights, CA
Sending my sincere condolences for your loss of you son and brother. You and your family are in my thoughts.
Whitmore Family - Portage, MI
Our thoughts, prayers, and love are headed your way.
Raye southwell - Arcadia, Fl
Julie,
Sending my heartfelt sympathy for the loss of Eric. My thoughts and prayers are with you as you go through this difficult time. I am so very sorry.
Love,
Raye Sumner Southwell
Pam Thorbahn - Gladstone, Mi
So sorry to realize this was your son Scott. Sending our sympathies.