Eric Joe ERICKSON

ERICKSON, HENDERSON, HOLM, BROWN, PUSIN

Posted By: Sarah Thorson Little (email)
Date: 8/16/2009 at 10:12:35

Eric Joe Erickson died at his home in Windcrest, Texas, on August 3rd after a lengthy and trying, but brave and hopeful, journey with cancer. Born in Leroy, Minnesota, on March 20, 1948, he was the fourth-born child, and beloved only son, of Jordan and Irene Erickson. He was raised in Kanawha, Iowa, and graduated from the University of Northern Iowa with a BS in marketing. Following his graduation, he lived for over 20 years in Minneapolis, Minnesota, where he worked for Northwest Airlines. During those years, his happiest moments were spent in and on the lakes of Minnesota, swimming in their cool waters or catching a breeze in his sailboat. He also lived in Oahu, Hawaii, and Scottsdale, Arizona. Having been a bachelor until his mid-life years, Eric met his wife Barbara at an art fundraiser in Scottsdale. They were married a year to the day later on November 16, 1994, and moved nine days later to San Antonio, Texas, where they shared their life with friends and family for the past 14 years. In sickness and in health, Eric lived his life with great hope for the future. He never gave up, even as his health was failing. The family wishes to convey their special appreciation to the wonderful people at South Texas Accelerated Research Therapeutics (START) while Eric was under the care of Dr. Anthony Tolcher and his dedicated, caring staff. The family is also thankful for the angels on earth sent by hospice who went beyond keeping him comfortable, and through their professionalism and special touches gave him such excellent care. Eric is survived by his wife, Barbara Erickson; his sisters Ann (Gray) Henderson of Tucson, Arizona, and Ellen (Stevan) Holm of Ames, Iowa; a niece, Amy (Matt) Brown and family of Waukee, Iowa; one nephew, Eric Holm, also of Waukee; and his wife's parents, Col. Bernard and Elinor Pusin, who loved him as their son. Eric was preceded in death by his parents and eldest sister, Jorrene. The circle of Eric's life is now complete. It was beautiful and inspirational for all those who knew and loved him. A memorial service celebrating Eric's life will be held 3:00 p.m., Friday, August 7, 2009 at Sunset Funeral Home. His remains will be interred next to his parents in his family's burial plot in Kanawha, Iowa. His spirit will live on in each of us. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the South Texas Accelerated Research Therapeutics (START), 4383 Medical Dr., San Antonio, TX 78229.

Express-News, San Antonio, Texas
August 6, 2009