Eric A. Pepino, 23, of Baltimore, Maryland, died unexpectedly on June 13, 2014. Born in San Diego, California on October 25, 1990, Eric was the son of Richard and stepmother Lisa Pepino of Ashley Falls, MA. He attended the former Bryant School in Great Barrington and then Mount Everett Regional High School in Sheffield. While at Mount Everett, Eric was very involved in sports, he excelled in wrestling, baseball and football. His high school buddies will always remember their "Pep." After high school, Eric decided he wanted to be a chef; he had always had an affinity for cooking! He got his toes "wet" by working at local restaurants and then it was time to spread his wings. He ventured south towards New York City and landed a position at the infamous "Blue Hill at Stone Barns" in, New York. One of his proudest moments was helping prepare a luncheon for the First Lady, Michelle Obama. He then moved to Baltimore, Maryland where he was promoted to Sous Chef at "Fleet Street" a very popular restaurant in the "Little Italy" section of the city. He was most recently employed by "Chinghiale" restaurant, also in Baltimore, Maryland. He acquired many friends in his line of work who lovingly referred to him as "Cuke" or "Cucumber", the Spanish meaning of Pepino. He loved to fish and whenever he was back home he would always find time to snow board. He will be remembered for his infectious smile, which he was rarely without, and his loyalty to his many friends and family. Eric is survived by his parents, his sister Regina Pepino, his aunts; Lyn Hankey and her husband Dennis of Sheffield, Joan Letourneau and her husband Joseph of Hillsdale and Elaine Tenney and her husband Herbert of South Egremont. He also leaves his cousins, Toby, Tasha and Taylor Zucco of Great Barrington. He was predeceased by his Uncle Mike McGuire who helped him develop his love for food and cooking! A celebration of Eric's life will be held sometime this summer at the family home in Ashley Falls at a time and date to be announced. In lieu of flowers, donations in Eric's memory may be made to The Sheffield Kiwanis in care of Finnerty & Stevens Funeral Home, 426 Main Street, Great Barrington, MA. 01230, who is handling arrangements.
