Obituary of Steven Eric Fugate

Eric was born on August 19, 1959, to Turista and Buddy Fugate in Ocala, Florida. He was mostly raised on a 5000 acre farm with his three brothers, Custis, Keith, and Kenneth, in Ocklawaha owned by Norris Cattle Company. In his high school years, he played basketball, football, and baseball. He graduated from East Marion in 1977. After graduation, he continued to work with his Dad in the farming industry for a little while. He then worked at Discount Building Supply, Skyline Manufacturing and retired as manager after 20 years with Mark III industries in 2001. During his later years, his hobbies included bowling, watching college football, especially the Florida Gators, and also watching the television series “Yellowstone”. He kept busy with projects over the years including, woodworking and upholstery. Over the last 20 years he found joy in helping his children build homes to raise his grandbabies. His last project was building this house with Debbie, the children and friends. His helping hand affected us all, even when he was limited by his health. Eric met Debbie, Candace and Wayne in 1985. Eric and Debbie were married October 24, 1986 and Eric adopted Candace and Wayne in 1987. In July of 1989 Erica was born into the family as the last addition. Eric loved his children and was so proud of the wonderful human beings they have become, loving, strong, and creative adults. In 2002 he gained another son, when Candace married Kelly. In 2007 he gained another daughter, when Wayne married Cynthia. In 2010 he gained another son when Erica married Scott. Those three families created five beautiful grandchildren, Kelsea, Kooper, Lily, Waylon and Willow, whom he loved dearly and created so many loving memories with each of them. Eric was of Baptist faith and believed he could talk to God any time he wanted. He was full of life, uplifting, inspiring, charming, intelligent, and witty, a man of strong convictions, but most of all loving! Private and Closed services will be held at the Fugate Residence on Saturday September 11, 2021. Arrangements made by Heirs-Baxley Funeral Services, Belleview.