“Life is great. Enjoy it!” Eric Pomeranz, 55, of Miami, FL passed away peacefully with his family by his side on January 7, 2021. Eric was born in New York, but later his family moved to Miami,
where Eric would live for the next 40+ years.
Eric was born with special needs, before federal law afforded special people like Eric with protections and opportunities. His mother, though, knew no bounds when it came to advocating for her son. She ensured Eric would not be left out. He played drums in a rock band in middle school. He was the football team’s equipment manager at Sunset High, wearing the distinctive number zero. At graduation, applause erupted when Eric’s name was read. 800+ students and families stood in recognition. He simply walked with a smile through the cheers.
At 22, he moved into the Haven Center in Kendall, where he was well-known and loved. He gained vocational skills and a job at Wendy’s. Later, Eric sought and obtained a job at Pizza Hut,
where he worked for 20+ years. Gaining independence, he left the Haven Center for a group home. He later moved into his own apartment, where he lived for most of his adult years.
He was well known at Kendall Lakes Mall, perhaps his favorite place in Miami. He drank Café con Leche at the bakery and ate pizza at the pizza place he loved since high school.
He loved the Phins, Heat, and Canes, even after his brothers attended FSU and UF. He knew everything about sports and could recite stats on demand. He commiserated over the Phins on
Sundays with his dad.
He loved his brothers and sister fiercely, and their spouses, often visiting them in Gainesville, Atlanta, and New York, always flying independently. Not a Mother’s Day or Father’s Day passed
without a call from their brother or brother-in-law Eric, also a beloved Uncle Eric. The center of his family, his siblings’ friends were always his friends too.
He inspired the careers of his brothers adding to a legacy already established with his kindness and smile. As his youngest brother is a professor, Eric taught a class one day at UF, ending in a
standing ovation.
Anyone who knew him, loved him and will miss his love for sports, his love for rock and roll, and most importantly his love for people and life. The world and all who knew him are better
because of him. He couldn’t have achieved all he did without the love and support of the care givers and coaches throughout his life, especially those at Sunrise; for them, Eric’s family is
eternally grateful.
He is survived by his mother Ilene Pomeranz, Gainesville, FL, his brother Adam (Veronica) Pomeranz, Atlanta, GA, his sister Julie (Joe – his favorite!) Yannaco, his brother Jamie (Ann)
Pomeranz, Gainesville, FL, and six nieces and nephews.
A virtual memorial service will be held January 23 rd at 1:00 pm on Zoom:
Meeting ID: 811 3038 2928
Passcode: 029545
Although not necessary, the family welcomes donations to Annandale Village
(https://annandale.org/), a residential community for adults with developmental disabilities, as
an expression of sympathy instead of flowers.
I will miss you very much my friend. I will see you on the other side, because Stone Cold said so !
RIP ERIC. YOUR SMILE WAS CONTAGIOUS. YOU ARE A RAY OF SUNSHINE. SMILE WITH THE ANGELS. ????????????
I knew Eric from so many concerts. He was an inspiration and role model. He was always smiling and had a positive outlook on life. He never Let his disability become a crutch. People would be cruel to him on occasion. But, He never wavered in his joy for life. Rest well, brother! God has you in his loving arms.
Eric my bud. I will truly miss you coming to Publix, although you didn’t work at publix , you my friend are part of this publix family. I will miss talking football with you and also calling me the Ice Man. Love you brother. May you R.I.P. my brother.
Eric was my friend and I saw him almost daily on his way to work and again on his way home
I had many conversations in my office at Publix.
He never met a stranger always happy, smiling and friendly to all. Eric is my friend and will always miss his smile and his laugh. Heaven welcomes a person that’s happy and laughing and very friendly. I am sadden by his passing. Eric I miss you.
Eric, your warmth and carelessness through the halls of Sunset were always welcomed by mysslf and all who saw you! I will always remember you and smile as you once said that I and my girlfriend of old were your favorite couple at Sunset High School. I know that as we lose you here on earrh Heaven gains an Angel who will always make God Smile. I WILL ALWAYS REMEMBER YOU MY DEAR FRIEND.
You were the best of us. See you on the other side Eric. Sunset High Class of 84.
Eric, you was a great kid to me in jr. high school, And I remember chicks loved you!
R.I.P. buddy.
Eric, you and I shared many special moments together . You always knew how to put a smile on my face. You always had so many beautiful compliments to say. You will forever hold a special place in my heart. Nana, Sophia and myself miss you but we know you’re watching over us. We will forever remember you and love you . ❤️❤️❤️
A word to Eric’s mom… I first met Eric in junior high band. I remember when the band teacher, Mr. Hill, informed the band ahead of time that a very special student would be joining us and playing the drums. He spoke so glowingly that I thought Eric was a celebrity before I had even seen him. It turned out to be true. He was a celebrity everywhere he met, with everyone who knew him. Thank you for bringing him into so many lives, such that even an acquaintance from band in junior high and high school remembers his joy for life decades later. May your heart be filled with many happy and meaningful memories.