Ralph Manza (Uncle Morrie) died on January 31, 2000, only three days after this episode aired, at the age of 78.
Despite references of Eric needing the experience, he worked with his dad at the grocery store for a couple of years and worked at the camping store. His father had faith in him since they were partners previously. It is never clear what Eric's major is.
The title is a line from the 1974 folk-rock song "Cat's in the Cradle" by Harry Chapin which topped the Billboard Hot 100 in December 1974, his only #1 hit song.
This episode takes place in January 2000.