Erich A. Seehafer

Our brother, Erich A. Seehafer was born on July 23, 1951.  He was pre-deceased by his mother, Charlotte Ann Seehafer (nee Hennessy) and father, Erich Richard Seehafer.  Erich was injured in a motorcycle accident at the tender age of 18, and from that point on, needed to use a wheelchair.  Erich lived a rather remarkable life for someone living as a paraplegic.  This did not define him or how he lived his life.  He was fiercely brave and never allowed his limitations to hinder how he lived.  Erich married (and divorced) and lived life to the fullest.  Truth is, once you met Erich, you were easily drawn in by his positivity and could just as easily forget there was a wheelchair.  There are many stories of him using his sense of humor to put others at ease.  That quick wit, along with his huge personality drew people to him.

As a teenager, Erich taught himself to play guitar; mastering the instrument and garnering much attention as a lead guitarist.  Along with his lifelong friend Ralph Thompson, they began to perform in bands together for many years.  They were a staple in the Georgetown music scene during the 1970’s, then took their talents to Reading, PA where they came very close to reaching national stardom.

During his music career, Erich worked for 23 years in the United States House of Representatives.  He served as Congressional Liaison in the House Publication Distribution Services.  In this position, he was selected to be a part of the new list processing office.  According to the Honorable Steny Hoyer (Majority Leader of the US House of Representatives), Erich “processed over 6,000 mailing lists totaling over 350 million addresses without error.”

Erich leaves three sisters, Denise M. Baker (Dennis), of Edenton, NC, Janine C. Davy (Richard) of Rockville, MD and Heidi M. Schrecengost (Eric) of Bryans Road, MD.  He is also survived by many nieces and nephews, as well as great nieces and great nephews.  Erich had a special way with the little ones!  He would give them rides on his wheelchair and light up their eyes with wonderful stories.  While he will be missed greatly, his gentle kindness, enormous talent, indomitable spirit and huge love for his family will live on whenever he is remembered.