ERICKSON, Melba (Williams) 1923-1999

FRETHEIM, WILLIAMS, ERICKSON

Posted By: IA GenWeb Volunteer
Date: 9/30/2010 at 11:41:44

Decorah Public Opinion, Tuesday, Sept. 21, 1999

Melba Erickson, 75, died Tuesday, Sept. 14, 1999, at the Eastern Star Home in Decorah.

A memorial service was held Monday, Sept. 20, at 11 a.m., at the First Lutheran church in Decorah with the Rev. Steven Jacobson officiating.

The Rev. Marion Miller was the organist. Honorary bearers were nieces and nephews Coral and Monti Stegen, Jay, Joel, Wendy, and Craig Williams, Leah Plourde, and Kathy Helm.

The body was cremated. The French & Balik Funeral Home handled arrangements.

Melba (Williams) Erickson was born Nov. 9, 1923, in Winneshiek County, the daughter of Olaf and Cora (Fretheim) Williams. She graduated from Decorah High School and Luther College.

She was married to Carsten Erickson and had one son, Paul.

Melba taught elementary school for about 40 years and retired from the Ossian School District.

She was a member of First Lutheran Church. Melba organized the Parkinson's Support Group and was active in the Steven's Ministries.

She was proud of her Norwegian heritage and volunteered for a number of years at the Vesterheim Museum. She was a big supporter of Nordic Fest. Melba also enjoyed plays and musical programs put on by Luther College.

Survivors include her son, Paul and Nancy Erickson of Philadelphia, Pa.; three grandchildren, John, Lynn and Nan; a brother, Richard and Janet Williams of Port Richey, Fla.; a sister, Juanita Williams of Kansas City, Mo.; and hundreds of former students whom she considered to be 'her children'.

Melba Erickson was preceded in death by her parents and a brother, Ervin "Bud" Williams.

Transcribed by an IA GenWeb Volunteer from obituaries found in the Howard-Winneshiek Genealogy Society Library, Cresco, Iowa.