Obituaries

When I first started going to CFTC there was this guy who would not only give me “fist bumps” on my workouts everyday but would also leave the most encouraging, positive comments about what I had done in that days workout. I figured he was just being nice because I was new. But then I noticed he would leave similarly positive comments on everyone’s workout, everyday. And he didn’t just say, “Great job today.” He would notice and say something personal to each and every person. I remember thinking to myself, “Who is this guy?” I quickly came to realize this guy was Erich, know at CFTC as Habbie Baby! And he was not just some nice guy at the gym. This guy gave 100% effort in every workout and then found a little more to give to others by pouring his heart out with his words of encouragement. He genuinely got to know everyone in the gym, remembered names and details of people’s lives, and made everyone feel seen, heard, and known. He would occasionally send me memes about teaching on FB messenger because he knew they would make me smile. There is going to be a gaping hole in the hearts of those who knew Erich at CFTC but we will always be grateful to him because we are better people for having known him. I will miss him but I know a small piece of him will always be cheering me on when I feel like giving up. RIP buddy.

Posted by Amy Monteiro on November 30, 2024