Eric Edward Julien passed away on December 30th at Doctor’s Medical Center from an unexpected illness. He was born July 28, 1951 in San Francisco to Robert and Jean Julien. Bob and Jean moved to Turlock and the Julien children attended local elementary schools including Julien Elementary School. Eric was proud to be in the Turlock High School Class of ‘69. His claim to fame was arranging the first THS Disneyland Grad Nite. Marine Biology interested Eric so he attended the University of Hawaii his first year. Having learned that UC San Diego was rated #1 in the Sciences, Eric transferred and graduated with a Biology Degree. He loved his years in San Diego with the highlight of renting a home in Del Mar close to the beach which provided many happy memories. Jacque Cousteau wasn’t hiring so Eric moved back to Turlock to pursue a secondary teaching credential via Stanislaus State and was later employed by Turlock Unified School District. In 1977, Eric and Becky Stinson were married at Turlock First United Methodist Church. Family was foremost in their lives as they raised two children Jennifer and Evan. Community service was also a must for the family, whether it be support of the church, service clubs, celebration of the arts, or education ventures. Eric enjoyed nature, music, plays, movies, and gizmo gadgets especially those involving computer chips. After 37 years of a wonderful teaching career, Eric retired from THS. That didn’t stop him from reading, researching, learning, and imparting knowledge. He finally had time to join a service club and was honored to be part of Turlock Sunrise Rotary. Eric also enjoyed the Saturday Lunch Club, Every 15 Minutes, CTA Retired, Turlock Concert Association, and the THS Retired Staff Luncheon. He never turned down helping someone with technical problems and spent copious hours communicating and spreading factual information to thousands of former students, friends, family, and colleagues via Facebook. He took a lead role in advocating for the passage of Bond Measures N and O. Part of the bond provided THS with a new Science Building, something he had rallied for since the beginning of his teaching career. Traveling was a highlight for Eric in his retirement whether it be to Europe, Oregon, or anywhere in his trailer. His last trip to his Viking Homelands in June was second to none. He loved every minute of it. His greatest joy was spending time with his family especially his two grandsons. Eric was one of a kind and loved by all who knew him. The man could tell a story! Eric was preceded in death by his parents and two sisters; Dr. Catherine Julien and Sarah Anderson. He is survived by his wife Becky, sister Ellen Bracamonte (Alvaro), brother Matthew Julien (Becca), and brother in law, Shawn Anderson. Eric and Becky were blessed with two children
Jennifer (Antonio) Sousa and Evan Julien (Jaime Kalenik). Eric’s grandsons Hank and Felix were the sparkle in his blue eyes. Eric leaves behind many nieces, nephews, and grand nieces and nephews. A celebration of the life of Eric Julien will be held Saturday, February 1st at the First United Methodist Church 1660 Arbor Way, at 10 am. Interment services are private. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to a scholarship named in his honor: Sunrise Rotary Eric Julien Memorial Scholarship, PO Box 1985, Turlock, CA 95381.