Eric Ray Vigil, Katy, Texas, died unexpectedly on April 5, 2011. Eric was born March 12, 1987, in Pueblo, Colorado. Eric graduated from Cinco Ranch High School in 2005 and most recently served honorably for his country in the U.S. Marine Corp, discharged in 2010. Eric is survived by a loving family, his mother Jacqueline Barrett Vigil, father Rich A. Vigil and stepmother Dannet Vigil, stepsister Brooke, stepbrother Brandon, his grandmothers Dora Read Vigil and Mary Garcia, his grandfather Ray (Frances) Vigil his Aunts Jeanne (Gary) Gonzales, Sue Ludwig and Eva Vigil, Uncles Ray, Joe, Paul (Antoinette) and David (Amy) Vigil and numerous cousins and extended family members.
Eric held a special place in the hearts of his family and friends. Eric’s talents were many. He was a gifted writer of poetry and short stories and loved to play the guitar and sing. He loved adventure and
travel, was certified in scuba diving and continued to devote his time to maintaining his fitness after his discharge from the Marine Corp. For the past nine months we’ve had the joy of reconnecting with our cherished son after being gone for four years.
Eric created such great memories and gave such love to everyone he touched. He loved going to his Aunt Jeanne and Uncle Gary’s ranch and riding four wheelers at top speed. He wished he had his motorcycle with him when his Uncle Ray brought his custom to the camping trip last summer so they could ride together. He cherished good food and craved all of his aunts cooking. He loved talking with his Aunt Eva. Cousin Chris was his favorite babysitter of all time and Eric enjoyed watching Chris raise his own children. He climbed to the top of 14,440 foot Mt. Elbert in Colorado with his cousin Scout last summer, loved his Uncle David’s jokes and always wanted to hang out with Aunt Amy, his roller coaster buddy. Uncle Joe’s art fascinated him. He always wanted a brother and sister and he was blessed to have that prayer granted.
Eric’s smile could light up the planet. He was the best son we ever had. Eric touched so many hearts and lives but often felt alone in his struggle to readjust to civilian life. He gave so much but was unable at times to accept the reciprocity. He was a lone warrior trying to fight the whole battle himself. He was a Marine. We love him forever.
In lieu of flowers, please send donations and reach out to our service personnel at one of the following in memory of Eric Ray Vigil:
The Wounded Warriors, http://www.woundedwarriorproject.org
The Fisher’s House, http://www.fisherhouse.org
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