December 4, 1958 – February 17, 2026
We are heartbroken to share the news of Eric Molenda’s passing at the age of 67, after a brief but brave fight with cancer. He left us on February 17, 2026, at Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre.
A long-time resident of Westfort, Eric went to Westgate Collegiate and Vocational Institute. After graduating high school, he began working right away as a cleaner at the Red Oak Inn. In 1978, following in his father’s footsteps, he started his career at Canadian Pacific Railroad and continued there until he retired on January 1, 2014.
As the eldest child of Frank and Vera Molenda, Eric lived a straightforward life similar to that of his parents. He had a passion for food and particularly loved his mother’s traditional German and Polish dishes. Snowmobiling and fishing were also among his favorite activities; during his younger days, he would hunt partridge.
Though Eric could be stubborn sometimes, he was also kind-hearted, generous, and funny. He will truly be missed. May he rest in peace.
Eric was preceded in death by his grandparents Johann and Pauline Grabowski; his parents Frank and Vera Molenda; uncle Nicolas Grabowski; and aunts Sophie Lupp (Hans) and Elizabeth Grabowski.
He is survived by his siblings Ron, Rick, and Linda; nephew Tyler; along with cousins Liz Johnston (Ian), Leo Lupp (Caroline), and Stephanie Lupp-Scharer (Matthew).
Cremation has taken place, and Eric will be laid to rest alongside his parents at Mountain View Cemetery. A private celebration of life will occur later.
The arrangements have been made through Simpler Times Cremation Centre located at 575 Central Avenue in Thunder Bay.
Please sign the online condolences at everestofthunderbay. com.
