Eric Truan Harteis

Eric, born on September 12, 1990, in Toledo, Ohio, passed away on August 23, 2026, after a courageous battle against NK-T Cell Lymphoma. He was a beloved son, brother, and friend, whose life was a testament to love, laughter, and resilience.

Eric was the cherished son of Tina (Mike) Andrzejewski and Richard (Ronni) Harteis. He is predeceased by his father Richard, sister Elizabeth, brother Dylan, niece Patricia, and grandparents Gerald Horton, Lester (Carol) Harteis, and Richard (MaryEllen) Andrzejewski. He leaves behind his loving siblings, Damien, John, Tabitha, Kara, Lili, Shade, and Kayden. Nephews and Nieces Deacon, RayleeMae, Jacklyn, Coraline, Avion, Natalie, and Vincenzo. Grandparents Deborah Horton, Arlene(Henry) Rios, who will forever treasure his memory.

A proud graduate of East Jessamine High School in Nicholasville, Kentucky, Eric went on to build a career he became deeply proud of as a Senior Supervisor at the Toledo Jeep Assembly Complex. In Eric’s own words, it was “the job I never knew I needed.” What began as an opportunity became so much more—a place that challenged him in every way, pushed him to grow, and gave him a sense of purpose and belonging.

Eric no longer viewed Jeep as simply a stepping stone in his career. It became a place where he could envision his future. He was determined to continue advancing within the company, with aspirations of one day reaching an executive-level position and ultimately retiring from the place that had come to mean so much to him.

While Eric took great pride in his professional growth and accomplishments, the relationships he built along the way were equally important to him. He brought his humor, personality, leadership, and unmistakable presence into the workplace each day, forming bonds that extended far beyond job titles and responsibilities. Jeep wasn’t just where Eric worked—it became an important part of the life and future he was building for himself.

Eric found joy in so many parts of life, but above everything else, he loved his family and friends. He treasured time spent with the people he loved, whether they were traveling somewhere new, taking a road trip, sharing an adventure, or simply laughing together. Eric loved to laugh, and anyone who knew him knew just how contagious that laughter could be.

He had a genuine sense of adventure and curiosity about the world. He loved aviation, traveling, photography, road trips, swimming, hiking, dogs, and even working—a reflection of the drive and determination that were such an important part of who he was. With his camera nearby and an eagerness to experience something new, Eric appreciated both the journey and the memories made along the way.

Travel held an especially meaningful place in Eric’s heart. Among his favorite destinations were Brazil, Hawaii, Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, Colorado, San Diego, and New York City. Of all the places his adventures took him, Hawaii and Rio de Janeiro held an extraordinary place in his heart. Eric described them simply as “the places that changed me.” They were more than destinations to him; they became part of his story and helped shape the way he saw the world and the life he wanted to live.

Eric understood that some of life’s greatest moments aren’t found in things, but in experiences—the places you go, the people beside you, the photographs you take, the sunsets you stop long enough to watch, and the laughter you share along the way. He lived with a desire to experience life, make memories, and surround himself with the people he loved most.

Things I Hope You Remember

As Eric reflected on his life, there were lessons he hoped those he loved would carry with them. In his own words:

Don’t wait to travel.

Tell people you love them.

Take pictures.

Watch sunsets.

Forgive when you can.

Life is unbelievably short.

Make memories.

Take the trip.

Call your parents.

Laugh often.

Love deeply.

These were more than words to Eric—they reflected the way he tried to live his life. He traveled, made memories, laughed loudly, loved deeply, and treasured the people who mattered most to him. His hope would be that those he leaves behind continue doing the same.

Eric’s life may have ended far sooner than anyone was ready for, but the love, laughter, memories, and lessons he leaves behind will remain. May we honor him not only by remembering the life he lived, but by carrying a little of his spirit into our own lives: take the trip, make the memories, say “I love you,” and never take the time we have with one another for granted.

Rest peacefully, Eric. Your laughter will be missed, your love will be carried with us, and your memory will forever live in the hearts of everyone fortunate enough to have known and loved you.

And in the words of Eric’s favorite quote—a reflection of the strength and resilience with which he lived his life:

“The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall.”

— Nelson Mandela

A celebration of Eric's life; Viewing September 3, 2026, at 3:00pm-7pm at Newcomer. 3655 King Rd. Toledo, Oh 43617.

Funeral services September 4th, 2026 at 11am at Newcomer. 3655 King Rd. Toledo, Oh 43617. Burial at Toledo Memorial following funeral services.

Wake/Repass following the burial, 3pm-7pm at St. Clement’s Hall. 2990 Tremainsville Rd. Toledo, Oh 43613.

This will be potluck style. Main course being provided. So please bring a dish to share.