Eric Lin Pribble

Eric Pribble, 39, of Grand Rapids, MI, formerly of Kindred, ND, passed away on Friday, July 3, 2026.

Eric was born on May 3, 1987, in Wheat Ridge, CO. He spent his early childhood in Morrison CO, before moving with his family to Kindred ND, in 1995. Eric graduated from Kindred High School with the Class of 2005. He continued his education at Minnesota State University Moorhead, where he studied computer science. In 2012, Eric made Grand Rapids, MI, his home, where he lived until his passing.

He enlisted in the North Dakota Air National Guard, proudly serving in the Security Forces profession and reaching the rank of Staff Sergeant. During his service, he earned his associate degree in Criminal Justice. He deployed in support of Operation Enduring Freedom in Iraq, participated in humanitarian work through Operation New Horizons in Panama and flood response in North Dakota. Eric became known as a leader who led by example and was always willing to serve others. His decorated military career included the following awards and citations: the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award (with 1 oak leaf cluster), National Defense Service Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal (with 1 service star), Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Air Force Expeditionary Service Ribbon (with Gold Border), Armed Forces Reserve Medal (with 1 ‘M’ Device), Small Arms Expert Marksmanship Ribbon (Rifle), and the Air Force Training Ribbon.

In his civilian life, Eric was an accomplished mixed martial artist who dedicated countless hours to training in Kung Fu before continuing his passion through Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. His dedication to martial arts led to a competitive MMA career, finishing with an impressive record 8-2. He was disciplined, determined, and never shied away from a challenge. Throughout his professional life, Eric built a reputation as a dependable, hardworking leader. Whether working as an inventory specialist for manufacturing, retail, or the vending industry, he was respected for his strong work ethic and his ability to solve problems.

Beyond his professional life, Eric was generous with his free time within his or surrounding communities. He volunteered to assist with critical flood response efforts in Louisiana to assist with Hurricane Katrina relief. Technology was another lifelong passion of Eric's; his curiosity and aptitude for computers remained a constant throughout his life. He also had a remarkable connection with animals. They seemed to trust him instinctively, and he possessed a gentle, caring way with them. Although naturally private, those who knew Eric best understood his playful side. He loved pulling pranks, sharing a laugh, and spending time online gaming with friends.

Eric is survived by his mother, Carla Engen of Kindred, ND; his brother, Scott and wife Amanda Pribble, children: Ryett, Gunner, and Hadley of Whispering Pines, NC; his sister, Nicole Pribble, of Fargo, and her daughter Chloe of Tulsa, OK, as well as many extended family members and dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his father, Perry Pribble of Broken Arrow, OK, in 2009.

Eric’s Memorial Service will take place at Boulger Funeral Home, Fargo, ND on Monday, July 20, 2026, at 2:00 PM, family and friends are invited at 1:30 PM for visitation. Immediately following the service there will be an Honor Guard presentation outside. Everyone is invited to the VFW in West Fargo from 5-8 PM for a Remembrance gathering to tell a story and visit with friends and family.

Link for family and friends to send a personal message or story video to the family:

CLICK HERE FOR PERSONAL TRIBUTE MESSAGE