John Erickson, 80

Thief River Falls - John Erickson, 80, of Thief River Falls, passed away on Sunday, May 5, 2024 at Sanford Medical Center, Fargo, ND. John Edward Erickson was born on September 1, 1943 in Grand Forks, ND, the son of George and Evelyn (Ulvedal) Erickson. He was baptized and confirmed in the Lutheran faith. John attended school in Grand Forks, until the age of 10 when they moved to Thief River Falls. He graduated from Lincoln High School. In 1962 John enlisted in the United States Navy. He proudly served his country for 4 ½ years. On January 3, 1966 John was united in marriage to his high school sweetheart, Gloria “Tootsie” Erickson. Together they lived briefly in San Diego, California while John was in the U.S. Navy. When John was discharged they made their home together in Thief River Falls. They were blessed with two children, RoxAnne and Steven. John was employed by Arctic Cat and later, Les’s Sanitation. John also established Erickson Demolition Site in rural St. Hilaire. While employed by Arctic Cat, he was part of the first corporate race team. John enjoyed riding motorcycle and was a longtime member of the Northriders MC where he was known as “Spaz.” He also enjoyed spending time at the lake cabin, watching wildlife, spending time with family, and hunting with his family at Tangle Ridge Deer Camp. He was an avid gun enthusiast and collector, and enjoyed sharing his collection with friends and family. John is survived by his children, RoxAnne (Lee) Moen and Steven Erickson; grandchildren, Brandon Nelson, Bryan Klopp, Travis (Kelly) Moen, and Taran Moen; several great-grandchildren; sisters and brothers, Jo (Bob) Carlson of Moorhead, Jan Curfman of Prescott, AZ, Julie (Arlen) Kotta of Comstock, Jim Erickson (Judy Badman) of Blaine, Jay (Katie) Erickson of Wahpeton, ND; his Northrider Brothers; his dog, Buddy; and many relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his wife, Gloria “Tootsie” Erickson; grandson, Taylor Moen; parents, George and Evelyn Erickson; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Virgil and Mayme Lappegaard; brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Mike and Sue Beito; and many other relatives and friends. Funeral Services will be held at 2 p.m. on Friday, May 10, 2024 at New Hope Lutheran Church in Newfolden, with Pastor Ollie Urdahl officiating. Burial will follow at Black River Cemetery, rural St. Hilaire. Visitation will take place one hour prior to the funeral service on Friday at the church. A00003B2024MY08