Orlan Erickson, 85, Albert Lea

Published 12:00 am Tuesday, January 2, 2007

Orlie was born near Brush Creek on July 11, 1921. He died Dec. 28, 2006 at the Albert Lea Good Samaritan Care Center. He was 85.

His beloved wife Gert, his parents Peter and Nora (Sabin) Erickson, sisters, Charlene Ehrich, Norma Christensen, Barbara Steen and two infant sons preceded him in death. He is survived by his three children, Claudia (Robert) Demo, Peter (Debbie) Erickson both of Lakeville and Tricia Erickson of St. Paul. Two grandsons, Stephen (Erica) Demo, Eric (Heidi) Demo both of Farmington and seven great grandchildren Miranda, Riley, Ericson, Isabel, Abram, Nicholas and Gianna. Two sisters, Dolores Stovern of Albert Lea, Nancy (Jim) Lawson of Devil’s Lake, N.D., brother-in-law Lawrence Steen of Webster, S.D., numerous nieces and nephews, and many other loved family and dear friends.

He attended Albert Lea High school after which he enlisted in the army where he played French horn and baritone in the U.S. Army Band. Orlie married Gertrude Leif of Austin in 1944. They settled in Albert Lea where Orlie worked for Smith Tire and Electric and M & L Motor Supply for 37 years until his retirement in 1986.

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Dad was a member of the Cloverleaf Lions, the American Legion, Golden K’s, and the Elk’s Club. He was an avid golfer and enjoyed the many friendships he made both on and off the course. He was a facilitator of the local grief support group and treasured the many friendships he made there. He also cherished his morning coffee at Hy-Vee and talking with his friends there.

We are especially grateful to the staff of the Albert Lea Good Samaritan Center, the nurses from Crossroads Community Hospice and to Dr. Arvin Vocal for the compassionate care of our father.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to St. Theodore’s Catholic Church and School Endowment Fund, the adopt a student program, the Albert Lea Good Samaritan Center, Crossroads Community Hospice, or donor’s choice.

Mass of Christian Burial to celebrate Orlie’s life will be held 11 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 4, 2007 at St. Theodore’s Catholic Church with a one-hour visitation prior to the service.

Father Greg Leif and Deacon Mike Ellis will officiate.

Inurnment will be at Fort Snelling National Cemetery, Minneapolis.