Eric Thomas Joseph Hogue

Eric Thomas Joseph Hogue, born June 9, 1962, passed away on November 7, 2024, at the age of 62. Eric was the eldest of his 3 siblings: Cara, Aaron, and Jason; born to MaryJane and Thomas Hogue.  He is survived by his loving wife Cheryl and his children Nathan, Daniel, Sarah, Sam, and Joshua. Eric was the loving Nonno of Sarah’s children Antonio Mackey and Torianna Mackey.  His nieces and nephews are Cara’s daughter Kiri, Aaron and Hetty”s children Adrian and Ruby, and grand-nephew Braylon.

Eric was a passionate and generous teacher to his family and college students. He was so focused on his career and support for his loved ones that he refused to stop teaching and working, even under the early signs of ALS. There were few as smart and strong-willed. Not only was he an incredibly intelligent individual, he was also a fun and sharing gamer. Eric loved attending gatherings of multiple gaming sites with his community. Just as importantly, he loved sharing those experiences with his family and friends. His love of gaming lives on in all his family, and especially in his youngest Joshua. Eric’s sharp wit was matched by his incredible sense of humor. He was not afraid to throw a joke into a serious conversation, and he was an enthusiastic listener as well. He knew how to make you laugh and feel self-assured at the same time. 

A memory that will always define Eric Hogue happened during his last stages of life. Joshua was a primary caretaker for him on a daily basis. Eric and Joshua would spend time together watching fun television shows like Superman the Animated Series. Recently Joshua asked him what he’d like to watch. Eric, who was yet to have a speaking machine, communicated by signaling to Joshua who painstakingly keyboarded the message on the viewing screen. At the end of the recent exchange, Joshua read the message out loud and was astonished: “You choose.” Even while suffering and struggling, Eric put what his son wanted over what he wanted. Eric was truly the epitome of love and selflessness to his family and loved ones.

To laugh is to be merry

To help is to care

To listen is to be open

To provide is to share

At laughing, he was always E-xceptional

At helping, he was always R-adiant

At listening, he was always I-nspirational

At providing, he was always C-aring

E-R-I-C was like no other

From Husband, to teacher, to brother

But especially as a Father

As his son, I say truly say without compare

Where there is love

He’ll be there.

Memorials may be made to the family for Eric’s nieces and nephews education fund.

Graveside Service will be held on Wednesday, November 13, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. at Walnut Hill Cemetery, Belleville, IL. 

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