Eric Steven Dreiling

Eric Steven Dreiling, 44, a man whose enthusiasm for life was matched only by his love for family, passed away peacefully on April 12, 2025, surrounded by loved ones. Born on February 9, 1981, in Great Bend, Kansas, Eric lived each day with purpose and joy. He faced his five-year battle with kidney cancer with remarkable courage and unwavering optimism.

Eric was the oldest of the three siblings and took that role seriously, always reaching out and ensuring everyone in his family was connected and informed even when family lived across multiple states.

Eric was a proud graduate of Winfield High School, where he was involved in many activities throughout his high school career. Basketball, Golf, High School Band and swim club were all passions of his during that time. He was an avid water skier at Table Rock Lake, a love that stayed with him throughout his life. He continued his education at Kansas State University studying Business Administration and joining the Pi Kappa Phi fraternity. His loyalty to Kansas State ran deep, evidenced by his enthusiastic support for the University throughout the years.

Eric found his true professional calling in the automotive industry, where he spent 15 successful years. As Sales Director at Bob Moore Porsche in Oklahoma City for the past six years, he combined his passion for exceptional vehicles with his natural talent for leadership and customer service.

Nine years ago, Eric's life was transformed when he met Kelee, beginning a love story that would define his remaining years. Their marriage was a testament to their deep connection, and Eric embraced his role as stepfather to Zurie with pure joy and dedication. Even his sometimes-comical relationships with their dogs, Oliver and Oakley, showed his capacity for unconditional love.

Eric was known for his meticulous nature in both life and work. His friends and family will remember him not just for his personality but for his big heart, leadership, and the impactful ways he touched their lives.

Eric is survived by his cherished wife Kelee, his adored daughter Zurie, and his loving parents Steve and Jan Dreiling. He leaves behind his two brothers, Craig (wife Julie) and Christopher (wife Tessa), along with his nephews and niece Jett, London, Baylor, and Jack. His family also includes his parents-in-law, Steve and Dixie Ochs, brother-in-law Kamron (wife Whitney), and numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins who were all blessed to know him.

He is preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Norman and Shirley Dreiling, and his maternal grandparents, Karl and Mary Mai.

A prayer service will be held on April 17, 2025, at 6:00 PM at Smith & Kernke Funeral Home in Oklahoma City on N. May Ave. The funeral service will take place on April 18, 2025, at 11:00 AM, also at the same location. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to KidneyCAN in Eric’s memory: https://kidneycan.org/donate-now/

The legacy of Eric will remain alive in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know him. His unwavering spirit, kindness, and love will be carried on through his family and friends, honoring the incredible man he was.