Ralph Eric Biggs
June 24, 1969 – August 25, 2024
Ralph Eric Biggs, fondly known as Eric, was born on June 24, 1969, in Decatur, Indiana. He passed away on August 25, 2024, at the age of 55. Eric was the beloved son of Ralph Emmitt Biggs and Jean Lutz Biggs (née Smith), both of whom preceded him in death. He is survived by his younger brother, Kevan Bryan Biggs, his sister-in-law, Heather Biggs, his cherished nieces, Avery and Lauren Biggs, as well as his nephew, Charlie Biggs.
In April 2004, Eric suffered a life-altering injury, breaking his neck and becoming a quadriplegic. Despite this, he lived the last 20 years of his life with remarkable independence and resilience. Most of his adult life was spent in California, with the past several years in Berkeley, where he found a close-knit community of friends. After his injury, many in California knew him as Rafe.
Eric was a proud graduate of Purdue University, class of 1991, and later earned a Doctorate in Industrial Psychology from Alliant International University. Before his injury, he worked as an executive coach, a role in which he excelled and left a lasting impact.
Following his injury, Eric dedicated himself to helping others, particularly within the disabled community, fostering connections and finding meaning through relationships. His passions included travel, surfing, and snow skiing, and he was also a skilled private pilot.
Though Eric did not marry or have children, he cultivated a large and loving chosen family. He maintained a close bond with his brother Kevan and Kevan’s family in Indiana, despite the physical distance.
Eric’s life was a testament to hope and dignity in the face of adversity. He consistently battled against depression, choosing instead to show up in life with a positive attitude. He inspired nearly everyone who knew him, teaching others that, regardless of life’s challenges, we have the power to assign meaning and choose hope and love. Eric’s caregivers were profoundly impacted by his spirit, learning compassion, humor, understanding, and accountability from him.
Eric will be deeply missed by all who knew him. He is now reunited with his parents in Heaven, along with other beloved souls who have gone before him.
A celebration of Eric’s life was held on Sunday, September 1, 2024, from 1:00 PM to 2:30 PM at 1801 Berkeley, CA, on the terrace of the 2nd floor.
Eric wished to have his body cremated, with his ashes scattered in the Pacific Ocean. While we do not yet have an official date for this farewell, we will provide ample notice in advance to ensure that those traveling from out of state can join us in honoring his memory.