"Eliot and I are so sorry to miss the celebration of Eric's life but are with you in spirit from afar. The Bulmer Family is very special-to the Newport community and to everyone who has an interest in making sure the next generation discovers the wonders of science and the natural world. The Thompson Middle School SMILE Club has been honored and fortunate to have "Mr. Eric" teach a lesson to the group. On a personal level, I don't think it's an exaggeration to say that Pow Science! has played an important role in our grandkids' and younger cousins' love of science. Out hearts are heavy for you all today but hope there will be some joy in celebrating and remembering a very special man. -Elizabeth Gibbs and Eliot Raymond"
In loving memory of
Eric V. Bulmer
February 20, 1969 - January 27, 2018
Mr. Eric Bulmer died unexpectedly on January 27, 2018 in Newport, Rhode Island at the age of 48. Eric is survived by his mother, Maggie Bulmer of Middletown, RI; wife, Hema Bulmer; daughter, Khatima; sister Cathy Anderson, (m. George) of Portsmouth, Rhode Island; brother Gene Bulmer, (m. Joanne) of Raritan, NJ; brother Bill Bulmer (m.Tina), of Valencia, CA, and several nieces and nephews. Eric was born on February 20th, 1969 in Pompton Plains, New Jersey to Margaret and Bill Bulmer. He graduated from the University of Rhode Island in 1991 with a degree in Biology and Science education. He joined the Peace Corps and was assigned to Nepal in 1994 and served for three years. There, he met Him Kumari "Hema" Purja, whom he married in 1998. They returned to the United States, where Eric taught high school science on Block Island. Eric and Hema founded Pow!Science! in Middletown, Rhode Island in 2003. While large chain stores closed, Pow!Science! thrived, continually expanding, moving from Middletown to Wakefield, and then to a space twice larger in the Wakefield mall. In each shop, he created a community center to celebrate the wonders and beauties of science. More recently, Eric added a hobby corner to the shop to introduce a new generation to building model train sets.Eric was passionate about science and Marvel superheroes, entertaining children young and old as Captain America on July 4th celebrations and charity events. A Celebration of Life will be held on Tuesday, February 20, 2018 at the Jane Pickens Theater, 49 Touro Street, Newport beginning at 4:00pm. Service FEB 20. 04:00 PM Jane Pickens Theater 49 Touro Street Newport, RI, US, 02840 http://janepickens.com/
Tributes
"1 file added to the tribute wall"
"A sympathy card was purchased for the family of Eric V. Bulmer."
"I have vivid memories of Eric in my science class early in my career at Butler High School. His untimely passing is such a shock. I remember him as not just a great student, but a wonderful individual with such promise. I believe he fulfilled that promise with a wonderful career and a beautiful family. My thoughts and prayers are with the Bulmer family.Kurt Hanisch"
"Eric and Hema's Block Island friends are in shock. Eric was an inspiration to his students and his hands-on approach made science alive, real, and fun for his students. He will be remembered for his sharp wit, his creativity and energy in his classroom, and his strong sense of values. He was also a fun guy to hang around with. Joanne and I enjoyed many fun evenings with Eric and Hema and we really missed them when they left BI but very happy with the success of POW Science. The Block Island Community sends their condolences and love to Hema, Khatima, and the rest of the family.Love,John and Joanne"
"2 files added to the album New Album Name"
"Remembering good times with family in Rhode Island!"
"I am really sad to hear of this news. My friend Eric was an inspiration to me and a really top bloke. Sincere condolences to family and friends."
"Eric and I had not been friends for very long, in fact, we had never met in person. We shared a love for miniature terrain, and I was amazed at the fantastic work he did. It was funny, but it took me a while to realize that Eric was also the force behind "Cap". I kept wondering who the heck was this guy dressed like Captain America, reminding me to watch my language on Facebook. I will remember him fondly. #wieldtheshield"
"I became friends with Eric in 6th grade. He was a special, brilliant person who was always thinking outside of the box. He introduced me to Marvel Comic; that of wich I am still a collector of today. His artistic talent was awesome. I can remember hanging with Eric and Alfi Alvine at Lake Edenwald. Great memories. May he rest easy!!"
"My condolences to the Bulmer family. Eric was always a joy to be around."
"Maggie, Soi sorry for ypur loss This is unbelievable My deepest condolences Paul Napolitano"
"Maggie, You, Cathy, and your entire family are in our thoughts at this difficult time. Please accept our heartfelt condolences on the sudden loss of Eric.Sincerely,Mark Poremski (St. Paul's) and Kathy Poremski (Portsmouth Library)"
"Maggie, I worked with you so many years ago at the Mental Health Center. I was so sorry to hear about the passing of your son. I too lost a son, but he was only five. God was the only one who helped me accept his passing and get on with my life. I will pray that He will give comfort to you as well. Gerrie Beebe"
"Words cannot express the sorrow that is in my heart for you. Know that all of you are in the thoughts and prayers of each of us in my family. Love, Elaine Gennari"
"Maggie, Hema, Kathtima,,,,I can't believe this,,,such an amazing young man,,,,just not right."
"Dear Hema and family,I just heard of Eric's passing and am in shock to know the world has lost a true teacher of science. He taught in the Science Department at Somerset HIgh School for a short time but he made an impact on both staff and students. His love of science was infectious. He used an inquriy style of teaching which pushed the students to think a little deeper and ask the right questions. Please know that Eric and all of his family are in my prayers. May he Rest in Peace.Mary ClementSomerset HS Science Coordinator, retired"