Eric Sims

Eric Orlando Sims, age 66, passed calmly away in his home in Skamokawa with his two sons on May 22 at 6:35 p.m. He was a man of great dignity and little pride. Always accommodating and supportive, he has been described as a valued community member and stabilizer. He was a man who cared more for people than things or ideas and made a unique employer for those who had the privilege of working for him.

Eric was born on August 1, 1946 in Berkeley, CA. He grew up in Redondo Beach where, after being singled out in high school as exceptionally bright, he dropped out and went to work at various jobs in the area including an advertising company which had a great influence on his formidable understanding of human interaction. He moved north, through Redding, CA, Portland, Astoria and eventually to settle with a group of friends at the end of East Valley where he spent the last 40 years.

During his early life Eric was an avid surfer. Throughout he was an entrepreneur, great lover of food and an artist of diverse media. His tile artwork, available for many years at the Portland Saturday Market, may be found scattered around the countryside. He was also a political oracle for those with the stomach to look directly at issues. Perhaps most of all though, Eric was a supportive and loving community member, friend and father.

He is survived by his sons Rocky and Joss.

A memorial celebration will be held at the Skamokawa Grange at 1 p.m., June 22.