West Brookfield- Eric M. Gerhard, 50, passed away peacefully on February 20, 2026 surrounded by his family at his home. He is survived by his mother, Brenda Ziehl, and his step-father, Gerald Ziehl, with whom he lived. He leaves his two brothers, Jeremy Gerhard of Southfield, MI and Adam Gerhard of Newmarket, NH; his four step-sisters, Tara Patenaude of Cherry Valley, Jennifer Fraser of Princeton, Melissa Starratt of Leicester, and Margaret Ziehl of Dudley. Also, his father, Richard Gerhard, Jr. of Palm Bay, FL, as well as his aunts, uncles, and cousins. He was predeceased by his maternal grandparents, Melvin and Nina Williamson, his paternal grandparents, Richard and Mary-Wilah Gerhard, and his aunt, Lynne Dunham.

Eric also leaves behind his extended family, Regina Franz, Colette Enno, and Karen & Normal Kell.

He was born on June 7, 1975 in Southbridge, and lived in West Brookfield his whole life.

Graveside services for Eric will be held privately in the spring.

Varnum Funeral Home, 43 East Main St., in West Brookfield is honored to serve Eric’s family. An online tribute page is available at varnumfuneralhome.com