Erik T. Garoutte, 22

This picture always makes me smile. Erik was so photogenic. I was sitting next to him on a couch in a night club aboard a cruise ship. I just called out "Hey Erik!" He turned and that was the smile I captured. So I'm glad I got a great candid photo, even if it doesn't look like one. It's hard to describe, but if you knew Erik, this photo captures his personality and character like no other.

We All Love and Miss You So Much.

I had a dream about you last night. I am not even sure why i did. its been a long tme since you left this world. I did not know you very well but I knew you enough to know that you were a great person. I cried alittle in memory of you. You were a great friend to heath and kathleen. They came to visit with there new baby boy. We even talked about those funny drawings you used to make. I dont kow why i am saying all this on the internet I guess its just better to write out your feelings. Miss you Erik. I know you are in a better place. Give God a kiss for me :)

Thinking of you.

Alexis

Ilive in Springfield Missouri and Erik must of been an extraordinary young man my 8 year old son Blake Garoutte talks nothing else but being a Marine and I encourage it I watched your video and the thought of losing someone you loved so much well all I can say is I'm sorry .

my deepest condolences go out to Eriks family, i am former santa ana h.s alumni, i have serve 2 tours in Iraq as well its hard out there so if you know any vets make sure you guys salute them and thank them for such a grea sacrafice they do endure everyday, my taughts for you all out there,stay safe and come home everyone and my brother whos out there as we speak, SSG Lozacruz Moises former santa ana student also, Rest in peace Corpal Erik, Go Armed forces dont forget everyone we all bleed the same we are one team HOOOOAHHH

Donna,

This is Susie , your friend from Richland. I am so so sorry for your loss. I remember coming down to San Diego and Eric was 4 or 5 . What a handsome and fine young man he became. I am so sad and devastated when i learned of his passing. I have a daughter and she is the world to me . So the pain is unbearable and i am so sorry Donna. Hope you are doing ok and my prayers, love and thoughts are always with you. Pls email me at sues20079@gmail.com. I live in Las Vegas, Nv for the last 18 yrs . My daughter Taylor is 17 yrs old now. Hope your family is well and Bry Bry - Brian your son is well. (we called him Bri Bri when i was visiting you . I miss you so much and love you . Your Friend, Susie Pineda God Bless Eric .