Eric Sonugan Samson

Eric Sonugan Samson Sr., 83, of Visalia, California, passed away on November 21, 2025. Born in Larena, Siquijor, a beautiful coastal town in the Visayan region of the Philippines, he was the cherished son of Daniel and Leodegaria Samson. Eric graduated from the Honolulu Technical School, received certification through the Electronic Institute of Hawaii, and continued his trade education in Toronto at Seneca College. He immigrated to Canada in 1968 with hope in his heart and a desire to build a brighter future. One year later, he met Teresita, the woman who would become his lifelong companion and greatest blessing. They married in 1971 and built a life marked by devotion, resilience, and a deep and enduring love. During his years in Toronto, he served as an engineer for both the Addiction Research Foundation and the Donwood Institute. When he and his family later made their home in California, Eric continued his career in the Maintenance Department at Tulare District Hospital, where he offered 13 years of dedicated service to the community. His unwavering work ethic, reliability, quiet strength, and deep humility defined his time in these roles. In 1995, Eric was diagnosed with congestive heart failure, a moment that changed the course of his life. With courage and determination, he spent the next 30 years rebuilding his health and pouring his heart into the family he loved more than anything. His perseverance became a testament to his faith, devotion, and the quiet courage that shaped every part of his journey. Eric was a good man with a good heart. Known as "everyone's favorite uncle," he carried a gentle spirit that brought warmth to every gathering. He filled each room with joyful energy. His smile was bright, his laughter genuine, and his kindness touched every person fortunate enough to know him. The love he shared will continue to echo through the lives of his family and friends. Eric is survived by his devoted wife, Teresita Samson; his three children, Therese Espinal, Eric Samson Jr., and Kaylen Samson; his son-in-law, Matt Espinal; his daughter-in-law, Melissa Samson; and his two treasured grandchildren, Chloe Samson and Micah Samson. His family was his pride and the place where his heart found its greatest joy. Viewing will be held 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM Friday, December 19th, 2025 at Salser & Dillard Funeral Chapel, 127 E. Caldwell Ave., Visalia. Rosary will follow at 6:00 PM. Homily of Prayers services will be held 2:00 PM Saturday, December 20th, 2025 at Salser & Dillard Funeral Chapel. One of Eric's favorite scriptures was Proverbs 4:23 "Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it." Eric leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, humility, and grace. He will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever carried in the hearts of those who loved him most. Services have been entrusted to Salser & Dillard Funeral Chapel. Memorial Tributes and condolences may be offered by logging onto www.salseranddillard.com.

Eric Sonugan Samson

May 18, 1942 - November 21, 2025