Eric Paul Schlachta, 45, of Phoenixville, PA, died on Wednesday, December 30, 2009, in the Phoenixville Hospital. He was the beloved son of Mary Louise (nee Cronin) of Phoenixville and the late Captain Frank J. Schlachta, US Army Retired. A native of the town, Eric was a graduate of Phoenixville Area High School, Class of 1983. He also attended Montgomery County Community College and West Chester University.

As a young boy, he played baseball in the Kimberton Youth Athletic League and was on the soccer team at the Valley Forge Christian Academy. He delved into the world of magic at a young age also, spending many hours reading about men like Houdini and their accomplishments. His mother, Mary Lou, drove him to many magic shows, seminars, and workshops where he fine-tuned his skills as a performer under the tutelage of the Masters. His first show was at the Baptist Church of Phoenixville at a Mother/Daughter Banquet. He later expanded his act to include juggling.

During his busy career, Eric always took time out to give back to his Church. Eric was an instrumental figure in S'MORE, The Family Productions' Ministry at the Church. Eric played the part of "Vinny," and was a beloved regular. He touched the lives of hundreds of children and their parents through this Ministry.

Eric was not only a gifted magician, he was an astute business man and master marketer. Eric was so admired and respected in the business world, that other magicians and entrepreneurs from many different industries subscribed to his multiple newsletters and bought CD's, DVD's, and books produced by Eric. Eric is also credited for being one of the area's premier experts on internet marketing.

In addition to his mother, Eric is survived by his former wife Suzan (Norris) Schlachta, his precious children, Jocelyn Alysse, Jordan Grace, Sydney Hayden, and Harrison Joseph Schlachta, his dear step-daughter, Nika Norris. He was the dear uncle of David B. Pritts (Angel), Wrightsville, PA, Alicia M. Schlachta, of Columbia, SC, Brent D. Pritts, of Lancaster, PA, and Samantha L. Schlachta, of Mont Clare, PA, and six great nieces and nephews. He was also survived by many loving aunts, uncles and cousins. In addition to his father, Eric was predeceased by his sister, Joanna L. Pritts, and his brother Frank E. Schlachta.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend his funeral service at the Fairview Village Church of the Nazarene, 3044 W. Germantown Pike, Eagleville, PA, on Tuesday, January 5, 2010, at 11:00 a.m. Officiating will be the Rev. David Bennett. Interment will follow in the Limerick Garden of Memories. Friends will be received from 6:00-8:00 p.m. Monday evening at the Campbell-Ennis-Klotzbach Funeral Home, Inc., Main Street at Fifth Avenue, Phoenixville and from 10:00-11:00 a.m. Tuesday at the Church. Condolences may be offered online at www.PhoenixvilleFuneralHome.com.