Eric Murray Norberg was born July 3, 1968, in Mesa, AZ the son of Jaron B. and Deena Sherman Norberg joining older brothers Scott Jaron and Michael Sherman. He grew up in Tempe, AZ and graduated from Tempe High School in 1986. He attended Brigham Young University in Provo, UT before serving a two-year mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the Japan, Tokyo South Mission, where he was an assistant to the Mission President.
Upon his return, he finished his education at BYU and Arizona State University, graduating with a degree in English Literature. He married Melissa Ann Keller in 1993 and the talented, artistic couple lived in Phoenix, Paris and Manhattan. Even after their marriage ended, Eric and Melissa remained good friends throughout his life.
Eric loved his cats, movies, and sports. He could often be found taking daily six to eight mile walks on the Mesa canals. He was an avid reader and writer. He had an artist’s eye in photography and a poet’s appreciation for good literature. He was smart and witty as well as being loving, gentle and kind. He had a patient and observant nature, which allowed him to see and appreciate unique elements and qualities in people and things. He often had a way of bringing extra meaning, colors, and textures to the conversation.
Eric is preceded in death by his brother, Scott and his father, Jaron. Eric is survived by his mother, Deena Sherman, brother Michael (wife Darci; Shayna, Nathan & Mindy and Nova Norberg, Megan & Coulter and Saint and Rosie Reynolds; and Samantha); his nephews Adam Scott Norberg (wife Sarah; Henry, Elle and Chloe) and Cody Jaron Norberg (wife Alex; Jojo and Jay; former wife Leyla; Margot, William and Jack).
Eric passed away on June 28, 2023 in Mesa due to complications resulting from his ongoing struggle with alcoholism. We love E and miss him. In line with his wishes, we are holding a simple and private service for him this Saturday. In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to AZBrainfood.org – or reach out and give time to someone in need.
Arrangements by Bunker’s University Chapel, www.bunkerfuneral.com. Should this obituary appear anywhere but bunkerfuneral.com, please check our website for accurate details and service information.
So sorry 2 hear of Eric’s passing. He was such a great guy. He would come into Los Olivos Hand Car Wash and wash his vehicle. He was a great customer. He will be truly missed. So glad he is with his Dad in Heaven now. Prayers for friends and family of Eric.
I only met Eric once for 10 minutes. I was immediately struck by the qualities expressed in his obituary. I wish I had him as a friend when growing up. I trust the Lord knows his heart and being full of compassion, Eric will be with his family for the eternities.
I am very sorry for your loss and pray Eric and his loved ones are blessed with peace.
I served with Eric in Machida where we had some great experiences together. His talents were on display as we wrote and put on a play for the local area called “Kiseki Centa” or “Miracle Center” in which we highlighted the many miracles we witnessed and were part of. Teaching the Shiota Family with Norberg Choro was a highlight of my mission. Eric was an excellent missionary and leader. He made a big impact for good on many people.
I remember the first long conversation I had with Eric as we were finishing up our freshman year at BYU; there was a bright light in his eyes and a gentleness to go with a wonderfully self-aware sense of humor; he was a keen observer and a joy to connect with. We wrote letters during our missions and I was lucky enough to be one of the crew who roomed together at the Norberg condo near campus after we got home. I jumped quickly into married life and did not stay in touch as much as I would have wished.
I wish we had a little more time.
I recall meeting with Eric a few times when he was around age twenty. Subdued, thoughtful and expressing literary interests, he introduced me to a play, “Waiting for Godot,” in which two fellows engage in conversation as they wait for Godot. But Godot never arrives. I found that rather meaningful at the time.