ForeverMissed
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This memorial website was created in memory of our loved one, Eric Rillos, 48, born on October 25, 1965 and passed away on December 21, 2013 of pancreatic cancer.. We will remember him forever, his awesome tight T-shirts, love of all things music and dashing good looks.  And one hell of a Chef!  

December 21, 2023
December 21, 2023
Well, handsome Eric… In a blink of an eye you were gone and 10 years has gone by with a blink of an eye. It just seems like yesterday we were doing all kinds of shenanigans together. Hard to believe it really is hard. I know you’re out in the universe doing your magic, you sent everyone of us signs that you are OK. We miss you so much we all love you so much I know you feel the love I know you do. I have so many wishes that set me up for failure because they’ll never come true until I see you again I find you in the music I find you in the stars, I find you quietly in the early mornings and every newspaper I walk by and think you would’ve read that from front to back. I miss you and you’re ever so snug T-shirts I miss your smile and I love seeing you and your daughter and your grandma, Eric… Never forgotten always loved. It was a life well lived and loved. ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
October 25, 2023
October 25, 2023
Happy heavenly birthday mama can’t believe it’s in 10 years since we last celebrated our birthdays together. What I would do ,.what I would trade in for you to be here with your family. You always loved and I know you are out in the universe making magic.  ❤️
December 21, 2022
December 21, 2022
Well, handsome Eric here we are again, how is it nine years? Time is the unwanted deceiving enemy of mine. Every day I wake up, I think of you every night I go to sleep I think of you we loved you enough for a lifetime and that still wasn’t enough time I know we’ll see you again and I know you’re looking after us, and you always always been loved so many people have so many special stories and experiences with you that makes you eternal. I wanted to stop by and say I love you babe we miss you are never ever forgotten and I’ll see you someday again in the clouds.
October 25, 2022
October 25, 2022
Happy heavenly birthday handsome. Another year without you here❤️ I miss celebrating a birthdays together and taunting you for nine days that you’re older than me❤️❤️❤️ Not a day goes by that I don’t think of you and now you put a smile on my heart with some of the funny things we did together and I just miss your beautiful face , your voice ..we all love and miss you forever. Until I see you in the clouds , have a heavenly birthday. ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
December 21, 2021
December 21, 2021
Well.. handsome Eric .. another year, we miss you so much… You are never forgotten… And always remembered with love our hearts a smile on our face.  We will see you again someday in the clouds.  We all love you and miss you so much so much. 
October 21, 2020
October 21, 2020
Happy Birthday Sweetie, I miss you so much and miss celebrating our birthdays together.  Not a day goes by I do not think of you and I say good morning to you. Miss your handsome face. This year was a special year for you, Elise had a beautiful baby boy and named him "Eric".  I met him and boy does he have some of your dashing good looks and the faces he makes is just like you... cracks me up, Elise did a great job making her babies.  Happy Birthday in heaven babe. Love you always. oxoxoxoxox
December 20, 2019
December 20, 2019
Hello Handsome, unreal another year without you.. I miss you so much.  I bet you and Mr. Moo were surprised to see our orange boy Hankie walk up to you in heaven last week (so heart broken). All my men have gone to heaven now.  Love you so much, never gets easier just remains different. Take care of our Hankie. Love you always, never forgotten. xoxo Kimmie
May 2, 2019
May 2, 2019
Wow! I had no idea that Eric had passed. A few minutes ago, I thought of Eric for the first time in several years and thought I would do a Google search to see what amazing things he might be doing in the restaurant business these days. And then I saw this. Man! I am sad to hear that he is gone, and so young. My name is David, and I worked with Chef Eric at the Loews Beverly Hills Hotel, around 15 years ago. I worked as the Financial Controller, so I chatted with Chef Eric regularly regarding the hotel, menus, food cost, etc. Chef Eric was a really unique guy, and I will never forget him. Grace and peace to you and your loved ones, Chef!
December 17, 2018
December 17, 2018
Handsome man, I miss you so much.  This void will never be filled.  Love you forever and thank you for sending me hummingbirds in our special way to let me know you are still around. I miss your smile, and your cute little baby butt.  Hank and Luna still sleep on your shoes and special blanket.  We miss you ... I can still here you say.. "I can't help that 'm a handsome man"... If anyone was more deserving to live a 1000 years it was you .. still struggle with the shitty hand that you were given ... love you forever ... xoxo
December 21, 2016
December 21, 2016
You are well thought of and very missed... love you brother!
October 22, 2016
October 22, 2016
1/2014 email on my Facebook from Victoria Dixon who went to elementary school with Eric :
{{{{HUGS}}}} Eric made a huge impression on me in elementary school. I was very shy, and chronically sick, and he was so outgoing and funny and just FUN! I don't remember all my classmates from my young years, but I remember him. He made me laugh even when I was feeling my worst.  Makes my heart ache to think he's gone.  I am just so sorry.....  I've had horrible loss, so I understand the pain.  Sending love and prayers your way. I'm glad Eric had you.

Victoria
October 22, 2016
October 22, 2016
Sent via FB email 1/2014 from Mark Padrilla:

My actual name is Mark Padilla. ..The other is a stupid fire department joke.....I met Eric in 7th grade at Gila Vista Jr. High....and as everyone describes ..it was a time of Vans and OP shirts...disco was dying and we were the new generation...lol...I first met Eric oddly in the PE showers....He would lather up his ass and run and slide across the shower floor...I was just flabbergasted at the thought. ..in seventh grade I'm naked and self conscious and here is this guy ..zooming around on his ass...lol....a few days later we all were doing it....I know it's a silly memory...but in hindsight I hope he tackled all of his hurdles in this manner...As a child of 12n I thought Eric to be crazy...I was raised in a strict household...and thought to make no waves...Eric was the kid who made tidal waves...who said the silliest things in class....with a straight face...and took it to the next level by truly acting like he had no idea what he was asking or saying...At twelve I was screaming inside..Oh My God! ..He was the popular kid. .The good looking kid...The one who when he failed in any thing ..was not embarrassed but embraced it...Whereas we were nervous to speak in class...It was showtime for Eric...All the girls wanted his attention and the guys envied him...We grew up very different , I due to poverty and poor self esteem was a  dumb Lil mexican gang  member...but oddly Eric was a friend to all ..he never belittled me..nor ignored me...if we were in line together or were seated together he spoke to me like we were longtime friends....this continued through high school...I liked that in him...we grew up in a very racist and poor vs rich environment. ..It never seemed to effect him....at school dances he danced with all the girls.. pretty and not so pretty ..and would pull the teachers out to dance with as well...
After graduation we all went our separate ways...I attended college and joined the local fire department and stayed until retirement 25 years later...During those years and as a Paramedic ...I met and worked with Ernie....as soon as I met him I asked about Eric...He was proud of him being a chef in San Diego ...Ernie proved to be the same way in character. ..Most physicians treat Paramedics quite poorly....Not Ernie it was like he was more impressed with us than we were with him. Kim I just wanted you to know...that maybe he was a good chef..maybe a good father ...maybe a good partner...I don't know...All I do know is he was a great kid and he made me feel better about myself as one...I am sorry for your loss...and thank you for posting and letting us know...I hope you find some comfort in this note...I apologize for the grammer I am on my phone, in a lobby .
In closing..if you want to here more stories of that wacky man...you should ask on the reunion page....you would be bombarded with content....I wish you peace, Kim.
October 26, 2015
October 26, 2015
Kim, this is your neighbor from down the street. Made me sad seeing outside this morning at 4 AM crying, I was very touched that you shared with me that today is Eric's 50th birthday and that you are going to stick to the plans you two made six years ago and go to Catalina to celebrate yours and Eric's birthday.  Eric would be proud of you that you're going to check off the bucket list that you two had for each other. I can imagine if my wife and I shared our birthdays days apart how I would get through it. Our hearts go out to you and we pray for Eric that he is resting in peace and I know he's looking down at you and sending you love.  We sure miss him driving up and down the street on that white scooter always smiling and waving and we sure miss watching you to walk around the block late at night. I'm glad that I was after my jog this morning so you didn't have to be alone. Damn shame it really is a damn shame. Happy 50th birthday buddy hang in there Kim he is with you. Eric is a lucky man to have your love. Joe
October 25, 2015
October 25, 2015
It is gut-wrenching to think that this should have been a wonderful 50th birthday celebration for you, Eric, one filled with joy and shared with loving family and friends. You will remain in my thoughts and prayers. I was blessed to have the privilege of knowing you in this lifetime.
August 21, 2015
August 21, 2015
I am in tears, uncontrollable tears streaming down my face. I was looking for Eric on the internet and found this memorial. My heart is truly broken in pieces for you Kimmie.  Reading your post I find myself crying and laughing at the same time. The love you have for Eric crashes through this computer screen with every word.  Poor Eric!!! Rest in peace Rillos.  You were a legend in life and now in death. This world just got darker with your light gone.  Kimmie, reading your words, Eric was so lucky to have you there at the end of his life.  Deeply sorry for your loss. He loved you very much and when he would come to our bar he would talk about Kimmie this and Kimmie that and a few nights Kimmie, Eric would say "That woman still loves me after all the shit I put her through".  Know this Eric loved you very much and had remorse for hurting you.  Thank god you were still around for him, thank god!!! Rest in peace Rillos.
August 11, 2015
August 11, 2015
I am just finding out TODAY, Aug. 11, 2015, about the passing of Eric. My sadness that I will never again see him is just overwhelming.
I worked with him at the Hard Rock Hotel. I would leave there shortly after he did. He and I had TONS of jokes, plenty of spats, and he was always supporting the best possible way of being a complete antagonist towards "the system" and it's "drones".
I think of him daily. I often tell stories of his personal, and our (often alcohol fueled) indiscretions.
He'd never pass up an opportunity to berate me on my fashion sense. He'd often employ me to create special banquet "request" meals. He'd say, "Hey, Gingey"... "Make me (whatever it was)".., "make it f#@king fast and make it f@#king taste good"!!!
I think of that every time I am doing anything on "the fly". Even to this day!
Rillos... You will forever be that bad mutherfucking chef to me. You were a solid guy, a real man's man. I thank you for all you shared with me.
Much Love and Respect, Gingey.
August 11, 2015
August 11, 2015
I am just finding out TODAY, Aug. 11, 2015, about the passing of Eric. My sadness that I will never again see him is just overwhelming.
I worked with him at the Hard Rock Hotel. I would leave there shortly after he did. He and I had TONS of jokes, plenty of spats, and he was always supporting the best possible way of being a complete antagonist towards "the system" and it's "drones".
I think of him daily. I often tell stories of his personal, and our (often alcohol fueled) indiscretions.
He'd never pass up an opportunity to berate me on my fashion sense. He'd often employ me to create special banquet "request" meals. He'd say, "Hey, Gingey"... "Make me (whatever it was)".., "make it f#@king fast and make it f@#king taste good"!!!
I think of that every time I am doing anything on "the fly". Even to this day!
Rillos... You will forever be that bad mutherfucking chef to me. You were a solid guy, a real man's man. I thank you for all you shared with me.
Much Love and Respect, Gingey.
June 13, 2015
June 13, 2015
I am stunned, I was looking for Eric as I heard he was a Chef here in Seattle, then I saw as recently as 2010 he worked at the Sorento which is literally 2 blocks from my facility. Eric an I went to school together, my last memory was 6th grade at Rolle in Yuma AZ. I am so sorry to hear of his passing, Eric was always the Funny Guy. What a loss, I am sure even though it has been years, he was an Awesome individual, I am truly sorry I will not get a chance to give him a hug and say " Damn Dude, it's been a long time "
March 13, 2015
March 13, 2015
My condolences to Eric's family and to you Kim.  Very sad news hearing Eric passed away. I am in tears right now reading your story about Eric, it is very clear you loved him deeply.  I knew Eric from the Loews Hotel, I would sit at the bar and watch a line of women waiting for Eric to come out of the kitchen and talk with them and Eric loved being the center of attention. What an electric personality Eric had and an outstanding Chef. I once explained my favorite dish to Chef Eric and he said "I can make that!" and sure enough he went back to the kitchen and made it.  Kim, I remember meeting you and clearly remember how smitten Eric was with you. He once shared with me, "see that woman over there, I am going to marry her one day" that is one smart, sexy, interesting lady,and never sits at the bar."  in reading some of these posts I feel you need to know how he spoke about you to others.  I understand loving a man such as Eric one will have struggles, ups and downs. Kim have peace knowing you ended on the UP.  That man loved you and adored you.  So unfair you lost Eric, that we all did. I will miss him and think of him fondly, as I will for you too Kim.  May god be with you and bless Eric soul.  William
September 24, 2014
September 24, 2014
I am eternally thankful to Kim for loving my brother. Kim let the family know of Eric's illness by contacting me and asking me to come to Eric. She opened her home to Eric's family and friends until his passing. There is no greater gift than the love she had for Eric than to allow us to love him with her in his final days. It makes my heart happy to read these remberances of Eric. He was one of a kind and I love and miss him very much.
August 9, 2014
August 9, 2014
I worked with Eric years ago in Old Town, he was married then to Eden and the life of the party. He was a good kisser to (he was separated when we hooked up). I was reading your letter on life story and it brought me to tears. Kim you really understood him, I am so very sorry for your lose and I hope that in time you will be able to start a new life. We all know Eric was a handful I am sure he will bring you someone new that will take good care of you like you clearly did for Eric.  Rest in peace Eric Rillos you will be missed by many.  Tiffany
August 1, 2014
August 1, 2014
I loved my friend Eric Rillos, still do. I hired him back in the 90's to help me open Cafe Sport in Bellevue. He continually pissed me off, but was such a natural cook. He would show up late and I would be so mad. But damn he could cook. We would drink a lot of bourbon together in the years to come
He asked me to put in a good word with Tom, so I called Tom and asked if he would talk to him. Tom in true form said "if you think I should hire him I will" I said he's an amazing cook, but likes to party. He worked his way to Chef pretty quickly. I remember when they profiled him in the Seattle Times. They shot him in his underwear. Ha! Those good looks obviously worked their charm on the reporter. I last talked to Eric when my son was about 3. He asked if I was happy, I told him mostly. He said "me too". He loved his son, and daughter and said they made his world. I lost track but kept thinking our paths would cross again. I was crushed to hear he had died.
August 1, 2014
August 1, 2014
Rest in peace Rillos!  Kim, my wife and I are so sorry you lost Eric.  I am not sure what the deal is with his family? we were told NOT to post on this page or any other memorial you are sponsering,and I find it rude. Eric loved you and was with you and your memory pages are so expressive of Eric's life.  They need to stop being so damn rude. Eric loved you and expressed how well you took care of him and greatful he was to have you in his life.  Good thing about bs family drama Kim is it was only between you and Eric. I understand you nip that drama in the butt, good for you!  God will find peace for you sweetheart and Eric is with you looking out for you.
August 1, 2014
August 1, 2014
What a awesome guy Eric Rillos was. Extremely sadden hearing of Eric's passing. Kim my condolences to you, I heard it was sudden and you rallied and made sure his family was by his side.  I spoke to Eric in early October and he was so happy, not working as usual.  I too am in shock Kim because I know he did not know he was ill in October so I cannot imagine what it must be like for you to have him gone like this. Cancer is a real Fucker!  Please have peace knowing Eric expressed his happiness with you and said wonderful things about you.  Rest in peace Rillos.  Amy
July 3, 2014
July 3, 2014
Extremely sadden to just hear about Eric passing away.  I dated Eric March of 2008 for about 3 months and never knew he had a daughter just his boy. Kim I never met you but I knew about you Eric talked about you all the time, all the time which was why I stopped seeing him. Clearly you had Eric heart and his boy. Eric was fun and cra cra and that was all I signed up for. I was happy to hear he was with you in the end.  Kim it is important for you to know that I had so many problems with that Jessica person and I heard about his family inviting her and honestly they are complete jackasses to do that, if they knew what Eric said about that girl when I was dating him.  Wish you peace. Holly
June 28, 2014
June 28, 2014
My condolences to you Kim and Eric family. Very sad news to hear about Eric passing away. I remember meeting Eric when he would cater some of our parties at hard rock. He spoke about his son Eric had just the most magnetic personalities on anyone ever met. When I met you Kim watching you and Eric together was just the funniest thing you two were like a comedy act and you will be talking somebody else and Eric would turn around and be like baby I'm not a baby baby just random and you'd say your not a bad baby clearly a private thing between you two but so funny to be witnessing it Eric just adored you he told me over and over I love that woman only woman on the planet that gets me.  My heart goes out to you I cant imagine what this must be like. I will forever remember his delicious food his invigorating personality beautiful smile rest in peace. May God give you peace in this sad time for you. Rose
June 26, 2014
June 26, 2014
Rillos Hey Buddy I will close out your tab buddy! damn fine man, damn shame! Kimmy you come by Freddy's anytime anytime ok open tab for you for life sweetie your on the books even if I am not here ok anything you need its on me. You and Eric were a funny pair I cannot imagine what you are going through. Your like PP&J just go together ! please come by. Eric is taking care of you from heaven; like you did for him in his life. God Damn this is un-real. We love you Kimmy Sorry to hear about his passing.RIP RILLOS RIP love to you Kimmy. B
June 21, 2014
June 21, 2014
Our sincerest condolences to you Kim for your loss. Mark saw you the other day walking and told me about Eric passing away. I cannot even imagine what you are going through. We miss him riding by our home on his white scooter. Eric had always been so nice to us and gave me the best recipe last summer. My heart breaks for you. Mark and I would see you two on your evening walks from our window and we thought those two are such a cute couple. laughing and singing, most couple we see do not even speak on their walks but not you two, you always were holding hands, smiling and talking to everyone in the neighborhood.  Eric was very handsome and a nice smile. So young it just is not fair.  I am happy to see you out walking again but it breaks our hearts to see you alone and sad.  For the record Kim, his family are jerks to invite the person Eric cheated on your with 5 years ago.  Mark was floored when he told me how upset you are over it.  Kim never forget Eric loved you and chose you to be with when he passed away. His family should be ashamed for themselves to hurt you like this.  I will come by and keep you company on that day.  You should not be alone on that day. Shameful people to do that. Its not about Eric on that day, its about them clearly and they don't care about your feelings.  I hope they remember who took care of Eric when he got sick and who he was with when he died. I wouldn't not want to have a reminder at my husbands funeral either.  Kim Eric loved you, we saw this every evening. and those people do not matter and the games they are playing. Eric love for you does. May god give you peace and comfort. Mark and I are hear for you. Eric is with you sweetie he won't be with them on that day trust me Eric will be by your side just like he chose to be in his death.  we will make a donation to cancer foundation in Eric name.  so deeply sorry for your loss. Love Cindy and Mark.
June 19, 2014
June 19, 2014
My first though was no not Rillos! I met him in February 2008 and boy did we have some good times, things I cannot write here but boy good times. We partied and stayed up for 2 whole days. I met him on the train from los angeles to san diego the day after valentines day, he was sad said he missed his gal Kimmie and was going back to some other chick in san diego,what a hussler this guy was. we partied on the train got off and continued the party into the next evening never sleeping. drugs, booze, sex you name it we did it.  Good times Rillos! sex drugs and rock n roll you handsome bastard! best 2 months of my life!  Hope you made it to heaven they need someone colorful like you.  RIP Rillos. Love and Rockets Roxy
June 6, 2014
June 6, 2014
John 3:16 - For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

Rest in peace Eric.
June 6, 2014
June 6, 2014
My condolences to you Kim and Eric's family.  What a sad day to hear of Eric's passing. That man had a great time living! Eric was the first hedrosexual male fashionista, no shirt was too small for Eric Rillos! And the cool shoes this guy had a great sense of style.  He will be missed by many.  Kim I heard what you did for him at the end of his life and I know what you did for him during his life with you.  There is a special place in heaven for you Kimmy.  Anybody else has something different to say they can come talk to me.  God be with you and know Eric is still with you. God Bless Eric Rillos!
June 5, 2014
June 5, 2014
I only knew Eric for a short time, and in that time he left a big impression. I will always and fondly remeber his big smile and laugh. Eric love of life and endless reading of the newspaper will always leave a smile on my face.  Kim he loved you so much and you really helped save his soul, and that is a fact that nobody can take from you. He truly loved you very much.  My husband and I are so sorry for your loss. May god keep him safe in his arms until you join him.  Missyrae
June 4, 2014
June 4, 2014
Lisa thank you so much for your lovely words, I can rest now that I found your number. So sorry for your loss as well. Losing your Dad is really tough I know unfortunately and then Eric too. My heart goes out to you.  Eric spoke about you to me several times and very nice things too.  Thank you for being apart of his life journey.  xox Kim
June 4, 2014
June 4, 2014
Kimmie! Ryan and I are so devastated to hear of Eric passing.  We cannot stop crying thinking about him so full of life and adored you, man that man loved you Kimmie.  Ryan and I laughed because we did not know your first names for the first 4 hours of meeting you both. You kept calling each other Baby. Eric yelling "Hey Baby, pick some good music", "Hey Baby! You love me" all we heard was Baby this and Baby that. You two were so extremely kind to my Ryan and I. You both coming to our big Gay wedding was a blast. Eric Rillos yelling I'll go only if its a big gay wedding! and you both did come. I will email you photos of our wedding my email is the same email me so I can get those photos you and Eric look HOT! OMG remember when we first met in 2008 and all of us that next day going to mexico and getting married! Ours was not legal of course being gay and all; But you two keep your dirty little secret didnt you? His family treating you like dirt no wonder you two ran off to do it.  What a great memory "Hey Baby Marry me Now! Your reply "Stop being a bad baby and I will" and you two did! Great times with great people. Our hearts are completely broken for you and poor Eric we will never understand Gods way Eric is gone too soon.  We love you Kimmie and come visit us ok. God Bless Eric Rillos and may god bless you too Kimmie we can only imagine how hard this is for you and his family. Girl you loved your Baby that is for sure, all the shit he put you through, but you kept loving that hunk of a man. Forever your Baby! Love and Sympathy James & Ryan.
June 4, 2014
June 4, 2014
James & Ryan,
OMG! I will email you would love to see the photos. God this is so hard James I cannot even put it in words. I miss my guy so much, I still cannot sleep through a entire night.  Yeah, you just let the cat out of that bag. We are legally married in Mexico. But shhhhh I have so many people knocking on my door for hosptial bills, child support in WA. never ending I have not had one peaceful weekend with out someone knocking on my door wanting something from Eric and my poor handsome baby is in heaven.  I will email you tonight.  Thank you for writing something lovely,  Big love to you both. xoxoxoxoxxoxoxoxoxoxxoxooxoxo
May 31, 2014
May 31, 2014
There are no words to express the sadness I feel about Eric’s untimely death. He passed away 2 days after my father did last December. Two of the most heartbreaking days in my entire lifetime. In reading Kim’s words on this memorial page, I recognize many of the things I remembered and loved about Eric, too. Not exactly the same of course, but his love of Fritos and tobasco etc. I had not seen him for about 10 years, but we kept in touch on the phone every few years or so for the last 20+ years. He was a huge part of my life in Seattle in our 20’s. He was a huge part of my life. Period. I think anyone that met him was taken in by his charm and presence. He was so amazingly talented and handsome. He was one in a million and there will never be anyone like him. His love of music, his style, his laugh. He and I were not great together, I loved him so much but we fought and acted badly and ultimately broke each other’s hearts back in those days. But through the years we always stayed in touch, making sure each other were doing OK from afar. And sometimes we were not always doing great in our lives. But I always thought we had so many more years to check in with each other. I remember his family and the way he loved them and they way they loved him back was amazing. He loved so hard. Loved all the people, friends, family and women and children in his life. He was so proud of Elise and Dorian. My heart aches for everyone that loves him and just for the loss of Eric Rillos. There are days when thinking about him being gone just makes me cry my eyes out even after all this time. It’s so heartbreaking how it all went down. I am so glad he was with you, Kim, when you received this devastating news and that you were there with him taking care of him and he knew he was loved so much at the end. I believe in my heart we’ll see him again. RIP Eric. XO
May 30, 2014
May 30, 2014
Prayers to you and Eric's family Kim.  I worked with Eric at the US Grant Hotel many years ago now. He ran a tight kitchen, loud at times but kept the line running and played his music really loud at closing time. He seemed to be a complicated man, stylish and the best damn chef I had the pleasure to work for. You know he is cooking up a feast fit for a God right now.  God Bless his soul. Brother you did not deserve to go out like this, damn shame.
May 27, 2014
May 27, 2014
Dear Kim, Our deepest condolence to you.  You and Eric have been amazing neighbours to my wife and I. We miss Eric driving by our home on his scooter waving and smiling at us. My wife loved his smile.
We enjoyed watching you two on your evening walks. We did not know
much about you two personally but what we witnessed was two people that are comfortable and affectionate with each other and my wife said many times you two are a good looking couple. Eric always offering to help my wife and mother with carrying in groceries. We hope to see you out walking again and we would love to join you when you start again. We can only imagine how the loss of Eric is effecting you. What we witnessed as your neighbour is two beautiful people very much in love. God bless Eric and May god help you through this painful loss. Sincerely Mr. and Mrs. Chin.  We have made a donation to pancreatic cancer action network in Eric's memory. God bless.
May 24, 2014
May 24, 2014
Eric Rillos I cannot believe you have died. I just heard and in complete tears. a complicated man with a great big smile, loud at times and love to get your drink on. Great parties at your place in Cape May good times and hang overs. We dated a couple of times in april/may 2008 and found out you had your lady in los angeles, not cool of you but I had good times with you. Kim I am sorry I was apart of hurting you, have comfort knowing he never stopped talking about you and I am happy to hear he was with you when he passed. He loved you very much and that other girl Jessica was a flea on a dog and know this Eric loved you very much and that is hard for me to say but I am glad to hear in the end Eric was with you. My hat is off to you girl, he put you through hell didnt deserve you but after what I heard what you did for him. Thats love girl. This must be so hard so very sorry for your loss find comfort that you made him a better man, he was a lovable bastard but damn fun. Sorry to be blunt but clearly you understood him. Peace be with you and his family. Tiffany
May 14, 2014
May 14, 2014
Thank you Chef Eric Tanaka for your lovely eulogy for Eric.

http://tomdouglas.com/blog/2014/05/a-eulogy-by-executive-chef-eric-tanaka/

Cooking, more often than not, is grueling. 25 years in, I feel my age in every joint and muscle as they strain to move me. Yet every day I look forward to being able to do it again. As I reflect, it’s not been about the work, but the people that make the restaurants so fulfilling every day.
I met Eric Rillos in October of 1994 and worked with him as cook and chef at both Dahlia and Etta’s for several years after. But you didn’t meet Eric, you were absorbed into his world. Baseball, rock and roll, literature, food, fashion- it all came at you. Eric loved talking and he loved talking about himself. There was no grey zone with him- just love or no love. He was a person of passion, and he pursued it full throttle in all facets of his life. His t-shirts were always so clean and his life was always so messy. But through an ass-kicking night you’d always want him on the stove next to you. I loved him, I loved his food and am deeply saddened to hear of his passing.
(Editor’s note: Eric Rillos passed away from pancreatic cancer, December 21, 2013. We didn’t know for sure what happened to Eric until recently.)
(Photo credit: Ed Anderson)
May 12, 2014
May 12, 2014
Kim we just found out, I am in complete shock. Our sincere deepest condolences to you and Eric's family. Eric was a man who lived my his own rules, so many years of drunkin boy antics. I will miss his vivacious personality. As I write this I am crying like I lost a brother reading your story and the obituary is dead on Kim and I agree with you Kim this is a hard hit. Great story I love to tell, Eric and I were neighbors and worked together I found Eric pants down on our front lawn more than once it was hysterical we come out and laugh he would be all curled up on the front lawn feet from his front door! Rillos antics never seize to amaze anyone. He had such a great smile and just a good good guy. Eric Bro I am heart broken the world will never be the same without you buddy. Kim you need anything just ask ok, you are not alone. Rest in peace Rillos, Love Dan
May 8, 2014
May 8, 2014
What a great guy! Eric Rillos you will be missed by many. I met Eric at O.B. OKE at Winstons early '08. Eric was so much fun, loved having a good time and closed the place down many a nights. Eric arranged a great dinner at Hard Rock for myself and my best girl friends we had a great time, then we went over to his house and partied all night. Kimmie, I am so deeply sorry for your loss. Knowing what you two went through together over the years and Eric talked about you all the time when you moved, he was heart broken, that guy loved you deeply.  I can only imagine how hard this is for you right now. Know this Kimmie he is watching over you sweetie and his son.  Eric loved you and no others during that time compared keep that in mind you had his heart.  Come visit me when you come to Ocean Beach. Eric is with God now and happier and no pain. My sincere condolences to you Kimmie and his children. Natalie just reminded of when Eric and Kimmie came into Winstons and sang duet of Kid by the pretendars you two ROCKED IT! We are so sad of Eric passing. Love Amber
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December 21, 2023
December 21, 2023
Well, handsome Eric… In a blink of an eye you were gone and 10 years has gone by with a blink of an eye. It just seems like yesterday we were doing all kinds of shenanigans together. Hard to believe it really is hard. I know you’re out in the universe doing your magic, you sent everyone of us signs that you are OK. We miss you so much we all love you so much I know you feel the love I know you do. I have so many wishes that set me up for failure because they’ll never come true until I see you again I find you in the music I find you in the stars, I find you quietly in the early mornings and every newspaper I walk by and think you would’ve read that from front to back. I miss you and you’re ever so snug T-shirts I miss your smile and I love seeing you and your daughter and your grandma, Eric… Never forgotten always loved. It was a life well lived and loved. ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
October 25, 2023
October 25, 2023
Happy heavenly birthday mama can’t believe it’s in 10 years since we last celebrated our birthdays together. What I would do ,.what I would trade in for you to be here with your family. You always loved and I know you are out in the universe making magic.  ❤️
December 21, 2022
December 21, 2022
Well, handsome Eric here we are again, how is it nine years? Time is the unwanted deceiving enemy of mine. Every day I wake up, I think of you every night I go to sleep I think of you we loved you enough for a lifetime and that still wasn’t enough time I know we’ll see you again and I know you’re looking after us, and you always always been loved so many people have so many special stories and experiences with you that makes you eternal. I wanted to stop by and say I love you babe we miss you are never ever forgotten and I’ll see you someday again in the clouds.
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Sorry to learn this

March 24
I knew Eric from Yuma where we played baseball in the city league (I wasn't good enough to make the Kofa HS baseball team). I believe that I was a year ahead of him, graduating in 1983. Eric was fun to hang out with and was definitely a good athlete and a free spirit. I'm very sorry to learn of his passing. Much too soon. Kevin Hayes

good times...

May 6, 2014

I knew eric from way back in the hood of west seattle back in 1987 or 1988, something like that. i met him at a restaurant i was at one night, in the lounge rather and he approached me and introduced himself. "hey...aren't you BG?" I looked at him strangely.."uh...yea". he said" I'm teresa's boyfriend eric rillos, your'e a chef right?" I said "yes, I am". He said to me " i would love to work for you". "I love cooking" he said. I replied with "fucking cool man!" I got him a job at the Sorrento Hotel where I was the sous chef at the time. It was a crazy time in Seattle in the late 80's, but all good...damn good times. Lots of partying, cooking, late nights, hell bent for creativity, rock and roll and doing the best we could and not taking less than the best for an answer. It was the way. It was the life. The dream. Care free and fucking wild. eric was one of those guys who, not unlike myself, didnt give a fuck what anyone said, we knew we were going to cook and be wild and kick ass and have fun..sometiems too much fun. Period. eric had troubles like any of us. i think he had a harder time keeping things at bay and the demons under control, or perhaps separating things from the professional work life. i know i was challenged. i worked with eric for about 2 years, until i moved on. i kept some tabs on him, after the birth of i think his first daughter and his own transition onto his next step in his career. i went one way, he went another. we cooked, we kicked ass, we lived the life. i fortunately checked into an outpaitient program for 11 months and gave up my addictions...i progressed,..i lost touch with him after a couple years as I think he left the city. life happens, marriage, kids, careers, love, work, bills,..then...fast forward to about 6 months ago or maybe even only 5...i see a facebook post from teresa brunsch, whom i knew and he dated(married?) and is the mother of his first child(or so I think), from junior high and the west seattle hood, ..stating that he had stage 4 cancer and to pray for him (her daughters father). before i knew what the hell was happening...i read he had passed. WTF??? i couldnt believe it. i too am 48 and we shared a lot in common in our passion for food, and yet so entirely different in so many other ways im sure. i had not spoken to him in many years, and can not even say we were close or real good friends, only that we shared a speck of sand in time together doing what we loved to do. i am saddened for you, for his daughter and sons, and for his whole family. i think about my loved ones and two sons and think how devastating it could and would be. i have lost both my parents and it sucks. i know we all need to go some day and i only hope that he did so with happiness about life and with being able to express that to those important and who he loved around him. i know he is in a better place, as are many of those who have passed before him and after. i will miss him, if even in my thoughts about our times together cooking and the day we met...an aspiring young cook making things happen(him) with an arogant shit like myself...i only hope that i perhaps in some small way contributed to his learning and growth and happiness in cooking as others have done for me. i will see you again my friend...on the other side...god bless you and your family....

Babe

March 18, 2014

Babe,

I meet you in 2003 hit me like lightening, and we did not start seeing each other until Nov. 2004 and by Jan. 2005 We knew we had something special.  God we laughed so much then.  When you moved in with me, the first night it was so flipping cold in OB and we both jumped into bed giggling like little kids that was a great night.   You and I had so much fun with music trivia, bike riding, road trips, going to all kinds of great places taking photos,,, of you of course.    I remember singing so loud coming home in the back alley at Cape May Your so Vein, watching you look at yourself in every refection.  God I adored you.   You made life hard, too hard at times as did I, but you always came back to the one you loved... Me. I would do it again with you, just change one thing... the other insignificant women.  And I do not take shit from anyone... anyone.   But you never stopped loving me and coming back to me and we worked through that and forgave each other for our faults.  That I am greatful for.

I am in so much shock losing you I just don't understand how why why.. I remember after you got that darn black widow bite you said Oh baby Im not going to live to be old I know this, and I got so mad at you and your reaction to my refusal to accept that and I made you take it back, and now ... and now your gone so not fair! my beautiful Eric this one is hard so hard.  Being by your side while you where hearing the most real words anyone could ever hear and be so brave, so brave I wouldnt have it any other way, bringing you home where you belonged, I had to bring you home and bring your love (family and friends). I am so angry at Verdugo hospital making you leave telling us Liver cancer making you leave with no pain meds, you didnt know I called that dr before I got there and yelled at the nurses to tell him to make the damn call I need to take care of my guy and demanded all the documentation to be ready for me when I got you. I sat next to you reading that they knew you had stage 4 pancreatic cancer I had to suck it up I am still in shock I did it I kept calm my heart was beating so fast the panic the shock of reading pancreatic and I looked at the discharge and I thought wtf.. you said liver cancer cut him loose no pain meds you bastards! I had to hide it from you until I could get you to a better hosptial and I told the new hospital not to say anything   until those records where read by a real doctors.. it was confirmed I read the reports right.... I cant even tell you what it was like to be so helpless I couldnt save you I couldnt take back I said oh my god I have to tell my guy he is dying.... oh my god.. real raw moments ... Eric I went outside to the parking lot and lost it  just lost it..thats why I was gone for 1/2 hour I just cried strangers tried to comfort me the security people the dr came out I kept begging god help me pull it together I remember it was so cold so cold outside but I had to pull it together before I could go back in, knowing what was coming next how do ou stop that who do you bargin with to make it all go away.. I couldnt save you... then I pulled it together and acted normal knowing the dr was coming to tell you the sad news, I sat next to you holding your hand it was so silent and  suddenly you said to me.. Kimmie Thank you for taking such good care of me, I really love you and appreicate you and then you said damn Im going to lose my hair in chemo.... I said babe you handled much worse in life and lets face it you are still going to be a hottie with no hair... you gave me that grrrrrr smile you do... I swear I earned my f'ing oscar that night... it killed me killed me knowing what was coming in the door for you... I loved you that much.. I couldnt save you from this one.  When that caring kind dr came in, my heart I though I it was going to explode I wanted so stop  him thinking if I did it will go away and he saw my eyes.. he saw me stuggle to breath and I shock my head yes to let him know it was time to tell you.  I keep remembering that woman in the next room with only a curtain seperating all of us,  coughing her family saying throw up in spanish and the nurse tell them to stop it being dramic.. I rembmer thining I know horrible of just shuf up go home take some advil..for the love... as soon as they heard the dr tell you.. not peep not one word one cough all down the line of rooms... yeah.. room one just got a hell of a bad deal.. no so sick  now are you.   I went back outside when they took you to get xrays, and I sturggled do I call your family now... I looked at the time it was now 1:30am and though why nothing between now and the sun coming is going to change anything for anyone let them have one last night of normal sleep.  I remember thinking stay strong dont lose it keep calm for Eric.  And it got away from me for a second you pulled your head so fast to look at me and I said you fuck you fuck  I have been ready for you to leave me for another 21 yr old, but no you had to it your way with cancer... and we both laughed.. I loved that about us.. we could be in a huge fight huge and I or you would say something really funny in the middle of intense fighting and we laugh and laugh... nobody  understood us.. we clearly had our own language of not this planet..butwe managed to keep loving...    We fought ... I didnt like sharing you and I didnt like not having a a choice in that situation as we all know ..as you know.. but we loved each other and in the end I know my love gave you peace and comfort and I know I took the fear away I know this... I will always remember your last minutes you had on earth staring at me, as medicated as you where I knew you the real you was there and I know you appreciated that I knew that the entire time and would talk to you normal and explain why this or that was happening,  your daughter telling me ahhh dads not to happy about the walker and wheel chair I had delivered but babe I watched struggle to stand to go to the bathroom and by god you where going to do it yourself, so I came and you gave a very medicate pissed off Eric look I said babe I got the walker because the meds are so strong you can't even walk a straight line I just want you to keep your dignitty and your a proud man and you are still Eric Rillos all Im doing is allowing you to be independant, man  you got up took that walker and push that thing a 100 miles fast to the bathroom... god bless you.. I watched you stare intently (for the last few days)  to memorize everyone face, and hankie and luna and you stared at me you where so so tired so much pain and I said babe your my great love I wish I could go with you oh  boy your eyes got so wide..I said well not now dont worry but you do not be afraid, you will be knowing of you, your son your daughter and my love and all your family love,  my family love and your friends love and Hankie and Luna  for you.. I said do you remember being scared when you where born, I said no because we are here we exist so why would it just end it doesnt  you will have peace and no pain.  I will forever remember you staring in my eyes you didnt need to speak I know I know honey ..I will always remember you holding my hand when I was sitting with you on the bed and you moving your mouth I love you over and over squeezing my hand to get my attnetion so I can see you say it.    I miss you my love,  I struggle every single day since you have left us. But I know your angels where here and took you with them.  You looked like a angel so beautiful, you will always be young and beautiful always.  I am so blessed to have loved you and it got real hard at times real hard but  I never gave up on you or tried to change you never... I kept my promise I would never leave you at the hospital and that  I will bring all your love.    I reminded you what you said to me at my dads funernal - you think anyone will say about me what you said about your dad..I said of course.. yes baby.. yes..  and my last words to you where remember what you asked me at my Dads funeral and you stared so deep in my eyes I knew where there..I said  look all that love that came through our door to say good bye to you... is your proof you lived and loved well.... God wanted you to see how much you matter to all of us. I am proud of you my love and I will love you with all my heart and soul forever and nodoby can take away your love for me and mine for you baby... Your eyes got so much relief you struggled so hard that day I am grateful I remember that conversation because it helped you, I could save you but I could help you.. and I said you pick your moment and you look so handsome and I kissed you.  I put my hand on your heart I knew then you where leaving soon, so I kissed your heart like I always did and I whispered in your ear I love you and you take all this love with you I promise it all goes with you and you will be knowing of you and all of us. it does not end.   You look like an angel so beautiful so peaceful.   This will never get easy being home alone, you not being here, the neighbors have all come by one at time where is your cute guy we havent seen him on the scooter waving at us..and I tell them you passed away... they all said one thing about you that was the same, he had a really beautiful smile.  I never from day one called you by your name it was always babe .. I use to watch you I dont why but when you would leave our house on your bike down the alley I would watch you..something about your broad shoulders.. something about that image was hunting but I would watch knowing ok why am I doing this man I really love this guy .... I did it for 10 years strange huh... you stared at all of us to memorize to not forget us and I stared at you from behind to memorize you.... strange..what we do.. I love you..  I just wish my dad was here to hug me, Im so lonely.  I  Love you Babe.      


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