A NEWLYWED tragically died in his wife’s arms while on their honeymoon in Kenya.
Eric, 39, and his wife Constanze tied the knot before the pandemic, but were unable to go on the holiday due to the lockdowns.
But their dream honeymoon soon turned into a nightmare when Eric died from an unexpected and deadly infection.
Eric’s friend Robert Gropp paid tribute to the dad – describing him as a “valued, respected and well-liked work colleague who enriched our lives with so much kindness, respect, commitment and humour”.
“Eric suddenly became very ill and was taken to a hospital,” Robert said.
“His condition deteriorated rapidly and steadily, and within days Eric lost the fight against the infection and passed away.
“It is impossible to put into words the torments Constanze had to experience in Africa and the incredible suffering you and your two beloved children, the families and relatives have to endure.”
Robert has set up a GoFundMe page – with donations hitting nearly £19,000.
He said Constanze was “incredibly grateful and overwhelmed” by the amount raised.
At the end of the fundraiser, Robert also plans to send her the entire list of donors “so every donation can have value”.
“We say goodbye from the bottom of our hearts – Dear Eric – we will miss you, but we will always remember you fondly and honour your memory,” Robert added.
Eric is survived by his wife and two children – Yarik, 4 and Feline, 6.
The mayor of Lauter-Bernsbach shared a heartfelt message saying: “It’s just incredibly sad that such a young family man was taken from life, he stood firmly in life, was popular and committed in the town.
“He was a very valuable person who will be greatly missed. My thoughts are with the relatives. I get goosebumps talking about it”.
Many donators have paid tribute to Eric on the GoFundMe page.
One wrote: “I wish the family a lot of strength for the future, rays of sunshine behind the clouds and many supporting hands”.
Another commented: “In the certainty of seeing you again, much strength to the family until then”.
One more said: “Our deepest sympathy to Constanze, the children and the other family members. Rest in peace Eric…”