Eric Gardner Obituary: Beloved KOTA Territory Meteorologist, Culinary Voice, and Community Figure Passes Away
RAPID CITY, S.D. — The KOTA Territory News team and the broader Rapid City community are mourning the heartbreaking and unexpected loss of Eric Gardner, the station’s cherished morning and noon meteorologist, who passed away sometime Monday evening. His passing marks the end of an era for a man whose presence, passion, and personality have been staples of local broadcasting and community life for over two decades.
Eric Gardner became a fixture of the KOTA-TV family in December 2002 and quickly earned a reputation for his warm demeanor, reliable weather forecasts, and genuine connection with viewers. For over 20 years, he greeted households across South Dakota and beyond with his calm voice, clear meteorological expertise, and heartfelt concern for the safety and well-being of his audience.
Before settling in Rapid City, Eric honed his craft across multiple states, working in Montana, Wyoming, and Texas. These diverse experiences shaped him into a seasoned professional whose love for weather went beyond charts and forecasts—it became a true calling, one he shared every day with integrity and heart.
But Eric was more than just a trusted meteorologist. He was a dynamic presence in Rapid City’s culinary and wine scenes, where he was equally at home behind a weather map as he was behind a kitchen counter or wine bar. For years, Eric enriched KOTA Territory’s programming with food and wine segments that brought elegance, creativity, and education to viewers. He hosted dozens of wine tastings, offered expert insights into the world of food pairings, and generously shared his deep knowledge and passion with the community.
Whether teaching viewers how to prepare a gourmet dish or introducing them to a new vintage, Eric infused every moment with warmth, curiosity, and joy. His food and wine segments weren’t just informative—they were celebrations of culture, hospitality, and life’s simple pleasures.
Colleagues at KOTA-TV remember Eric as more than a coworker. He was a friend, a mentor, a constant source of positivity and humor in the newsroom. His ability to connect with people—whether through a camera lens or across a dinner table—left a lasting impression on everyone who had the privilege of working with or knowing him.
News of Eric’s passing has sent ripples of sorrow through the Rapid City community and across the region. Social media has since been flooded with tributes, stories, and memories from friends, viewers, and local organizations touched by his talents and generosity. Many recall his infectious laugh, his quick wit, and his unwavering support of local initiatives and charities.
As Rapid City reflects on the remarkable life and legacy of Eric Gardner, it becomes clear that he was not just a public figure—he was a cherished part of the community fabric. He brought people together through weather updates, culinary arts, and wine culture, always encouraging others to enjoy life, be informed, and stay connected.
Details regarding memorial services and ways to honor Eric’s memory will be shared in the coming days. In the meantime, the KOTA Territory News team and the broader community are holding his loved ones close in thought and prayer during this difficult time.
Eric Gardner’s legacy will live on in every sunrise forecast, every shared meal, and every toast made in his honor. He will be dearly missed—but never forgotten.