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Tribute

Posted on January 15, 2009 by Staff

“Out beyond ideas of wrongdoing and rightdoing, there is a field.
I’ll meet you there.
When the soul lies down in
that grass, the world is too full
to even talk about. Ideas, language, even the phrase each other doesn’t make any sense.”
—Rumi—

Eric Edwin Diener died unexpectedly on December 29, 2008, in Montgomery, Alabama. Eric spent most of his life in the Chapel Hill/Carrboro area and lived in Asheville, N.C. for the past four years with his wife and two dogs. This is a collection of sentiments from Eric’s community. We are deeply saddened by his loss and write this tribute to celebrate his life.

“You entered my life and evoked in me an eruption of emotions I never felt before. You surrounded me with unconditional love and security in this life we lived together. You taught me the patience and understanding necessary to make our marriage work. You were called away from me to another place far too early, but you left an everlasting imprint on my heart and my being.
“Rest in peace, my love!”
—Laura Dominkovic

“He was a wonderful, loving son, husband, dog lover and friend to many, and he left a positive and valuable impact on our world.”
—Pam and Tom Diener

“In many ways he was kinda like a big brother to me. He was a few years older than me, and the way life would have it seemed like he would experience something first in life and then end up sharing those experiences with me. And I was definitely always for the better because of it.”
—Mick Daniel

“Eric put himself at service to people. That took many forms, such as working to support a Waldorf School, mentoring a teenage boy in trouble, being engaged with so many community projects, living and farming in Croatia, becoming
an exceptional builder, and being kind to his friends.”
—Jeff Dotson

“Most importantly, Eric was always there for his friends. From a barn raising to a briss, Eric always remembered the importance of connection and community.”
—Steve Bradley

“Our homeowners, staff and board appreciated Eric’s diligence. The Rosemary Place Townhomes stand as testimony to his skill
and commitment to provide high-quality homes.”
—Robert Dowling — Orange Community Housing Land and Trust

“Everything just fell into place, but I think that’s mostly in part
to Eric. I immediately felt so comfortable with him and trusted him thoroughly.”
—Client of Eric’s building company

“I appreciated his thoroughness, his hard work and his sense of idealism.”
—Emerson Waldorf School

“Eric taught me about forgiveness, openness, community, and love. I am grateful for these gifts.”
—Michelle Johnson

UBUNTU Eric.
I am because you are. We are a better community because you were part of our community.

Please visit Eric Diener’s memorial website at www.imorial.com/ericdiener to view and write a tribute or share a memory.

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