Eric Bender, 34, of Thornton, Colorado, passed away on January 13, 2026, surrounded by his loved ones. He was born on July 9, 1991, and from the very beginning he carried a gentle, joyful energy that stayed with him throughout his life. Eric loved music, laughter, and the simple joy of being himself. He was kind and soft-hearted, a big teddy bear with a goofy streak that could brighten any room. His full laugh, contagious, unmistakably his, was one of the many things his family and friends will miss most. He had a way of making people feel at ease, and he never lost the playful spirit of a big kid at heart. He is survived by his beloved son, Jeremiah; his mother, Lynda; and his three sisters, Sarah, Aubrey, and Genette. He is preceded in death by his father Tony as well as grandparents Martin, Toni, William, and Louis, who now welcome him with open arms. A memorial service will be held on February 28th from 4–6 PM at 6363 W 35th Ave, Wheat Ridge, CO 80033. In honor of Eric’s love for food, family, and shared moments, the family invites guests to bring a dish that reminds them of him. Eric’s memory will live on in the laughter he sparked, the music he loved, and the people who will forever carry him in their hearts