Eric Jon Stout, 59, of Salida, passed away peacefully in his sleep on January 16, 2025, after a long battle with heart complications. He was at his apartment in Salida, Colorado. A Celebration of Life will be held at noon on Saturday, February 1, at The Salida Elks Lodge in Salida, CO. Eric was born on March 7, 1965, to Jack and Stella Stout at the Salida hospital. He grew up in Salida and attended elementary, junior high, and high school there. Eric was proud to be a Salida Spartan athlete, competing in both football, swimming, baseball, fast-pitch softball and wrestling. Later in life, he remained dedicated to his alma mater as an active member of the Spartan Booster Club. In the winter of 1987, Eric joined the Navy, where he served as a Petty Officer 2nd Class on the USS Marvin Shields as a hull technician. He was awarded the National Defense Service Medal for his service during Desert Storm.
After his time in the Navy, Eric returned to Colorado to care for his ailing mother, Stella. Following her passing, he found a fulfilling career at Lewis & Glenn Funeral Home in Salida and also working as a dedicated Deputy Coroner with the Chaffee County Coroners Office. Eric’s work with the funeral home and coroners office helped many families through a very difficult time in their lives. He also performed these jobs with compassion and respect for the families he helped. Eric was an amazing father, a wonderful friend, and a dedicated brother. He cherished his family and friends deeply, always offering a helping hand and a listening ear. His kindness, generosity, and unwavering support touched the lives of many. Of all the joys in Eric’s life, his granddaughter Audrey was the greatest. She was the love of his life, and the time they spent together brought him immense happiness. Eric’s face would light up whenever he talked about Audrey, and he cherished every moment they shared. His memory will live on in her laughter. Eric is survived by his daughter Brandi, her husband Ray, and their daughter Audrey; his brothers Jack Stout Jr. and Wade Forrester; his sister Kathy Stout-Sterling; and their families. He also leaves behind a host of close friends who were like family to him. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Salida Spartan Athletic Booster Club through Lewis and Glenn Funeral Home. On line condolences may be sent to the family at lewisandglenn.com. The family of Eric Stout wishes to extend their sincere thanks to Lewis & Glenn Funeral Home and the many friends Eric had in Salida
