Eric Charles Zant

Eric Charles Zant, 58, passed away on April 30, 2024. He was born on September 21, 1965 in Grand Rapids, Michigan, where he lived his entire life. As a child, Eric loved being outdoors. He would be outside playing with his friends from sun up to sun down. Eric was a graduate of Forest Hills Northern, class of 1983. While there, he participated in many sports and did well as he was always a very intellectual student. Eric attended Eastern Michigan University where he received his bachelor of science and later his MBA degrees. He was a Founding Father of the Sigma Phi Epsilon Fraternity and served as its first Vice President. Eric spent his professional career as a successful car salesman for General Motors. One year, he achieved status as one of the top ten Chevrolet salesman in the entire country. He remained close to many of his clients who eventually became dear friends. In his younger years, Eric loved to golf. He would travel throughout the state playing Michigan’s many courses and tournaments. Once he became a dad, his favorite activities were trips to the donut shop on Friday mornings and game night on Saturday with his girls. Boy, Eric loved his Wolverines. He was a LOYAL U of M fan. Go Blue!! He also cheered on the Rockford Rams each season as a parent and booster. Not one for TV (other than sports), Eric was an avid reader and he especially liked mystery novels. You would seldom see him without a book in his hands. Eric’s biggest passion was his daughters, Izabella and Emmerson. He was extremely proud of his girls and loved them with all his heart. Other than his daughters, Eric is survived by his brother and best friend, Christopher Zant; brother, Bryan Rens; sister, Beth Wagner; sister and brother-in-law, Karen and Roger Cook; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his mother, Janice Karlene Rens; and father, Alfred Zant Jr. A memorial visitation will be held Friday, May 17, 2024 from 5-7 p.m. at MKD Stegenga Funeral Chapel, 1601 Post Drive NE, Belmont, MI. Eric was a gentle soul and he never had a bad word for anyone. Please remember him for the good he left in this world and let it bring a smile to your face. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in Eric’s name to the charity of your choice.