Eric
David DiDomenico died of heart disease at his Washington State residence on
March 19th, 2023, at the age of 64.He was born to Louis and Ruth DiDomenico in Burien, Washington on July 3, 1958, and became the oldest of their 6 children. In high school, he enjoyed debate, student body leadership, basketball, track, and football.
Eric graduated from Washington State University in 1981 with a degree in electrical engineering. In addition to his academic achievements, he was also a ROTC commissioned officer and a member of the Washington State football team. He was married to his former wife, Debbie for 31 years; together they raised their three children: Rachel, Sarah, and Nathan.
Eric entered the Air Force in July of 1981 and proudly served his country for 21 years, retiring as a seasoned Lieutenant Colonel. His career was extensive, but his most cherished achievements were flying as a test pilot at Edwards Airforce Base, California; teaching as an assistant professor of astronautics at the Airforce Academy in Colorado Springs, Colorado; and serving as the chief engineer for the Joint Strike Fighter (X-32) in Crystal City, VA.
He loved airplanes and space and would enthusiastically spread his knowledge to anyone that would listen. If a plane flew overhead, whether he was driving, walking, or talking, he would quickly identify its specific type and try to explain how one could tell.
Anyone who knew him knew how much he loved pizza and a good all-you-can-eat buffet.
A lifelong athlete, Eric ran 4 marathons and continued to run until his knees cried for mercy. At this point, he became an avid cycler, completing multiple half and full century rides. He would justify using his bike as transportation as often as he could, giving his bike helmet a run for its money on multiple occasions. His other hobbies included exercise in all forms, church activities, shooting guns, passionate debates, watching football, glaring at the stock market, and keeping close tabs on politicians to make sure they weren’t up to any funny business.
Eric was a zealous Christian for the majority of his life, studying the Bible, spreading its message, and supporting missionaries across the globe. He was an active member in his local church and would often volunteer to teach or serve at church gatherings.
Eric is predeceased by his father, Louis. He is survived by his former wife, Debbie; their children Rachel, Sarah and Nathan; his mother Ruth; and his siblings Kris, Laurie, Steve, Joey and Beth.