Eric Ross Quackenbush, 72, of Ann Arbor, MI, died peacefully on November 13, 2023, surrounded by his family. He was born and raised in Ann Arbor, the second son of Leland James and Elizabeth Hasse Quackenbush. He attended Burns Park Elementary School, Tappan Junior High School, and Pioneer High School. He continued his education at the University of Michigan. He earned a B.G.S. with a concentration in political science and Masters' degrees in Public Policy and Business Administration. While studying at U. of M., he met the love of his life Lucinda (Cindy) McCreery. They married in 1973, celebrating their 50th anniversary shortly before his death.
Eric was a hard-working and ambitious young man, beginning with a lawn-mowing business and work at the Packard Dairy Queen, then bartending at the Village Bell through his college years. He went on to work at ISR, the University Musical Society ticket office, in Detroit with a housing reclamation business, formed a bar catering business and another business building beautiful 18th and 19th century reproduction furniture.
By the time he was ready to start a family, he found work for the Michigan State Senate Democratic staff, working there for nine years. Moving into the private sector, he worked for more than 25 years in healthcare information technology. He especially enjoyed his work with small, start-up businesses. He made many contacts and friendships through the years, continuing in retirement to mentor and offer career advice.
Eric's work brought many opportunities for travel, and he was a proud two-million-mile air traveler. He and Cindy travelled extensively for pleasure as well, with trips to Europe, Asia, South America, and the Middle East. They also visited their large, extended family throughout the country, touring national parks, and spending time in their beloved home in Charlevoix, MI. In addition to travel, Eric's hobbies included music, art, antiques, woodworking, reading, cooking, and bridge.
Eric is survived by his wife, Cindy, and their sons, Christopher (Jeffrey Lofgreen) of Lilburn, GA, and Blair of Ann Arbor, MI. Also surviving are his sister, Ann Ongerth of Seattle, WA; his sister-in-law, Susan, of Ann Arbor; nephew, Benjamin Quackenbush, of Merrimack, NH; niece, Amanda Guidotti (Mike) and great-nephew, Theo, of Fredericksburg, VA.. In addition, he is mourned by his extended McCreery family who considered him a brother. He will always be in our hearts.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his dear brother, Jamie.
Private interment at Forest Lawn Cemetery in Ann Arbor, MI. A memorial service will be held in the Spring.