Ronald L. Erickson, Sr.

Ronald L. Erickson, Sr., age 80, of Chatham, died Sunday, June 22, 2025 in Marquette, Michigan. He was born on April 7, 1945 in Munising to the late Richard and Lucille “Dolly” (Passinault) Erickson. Ron graduated from Wm. G. Mather High School in 1963. He entered the United States Army in May of 1964 and was part of the 101st Airborne. The first time Ron flew in a plane he jumped out of it. He served in Vietnam with the 320th Artillery where Ron was a surveyor. He was honorably discharged in May of 1967 as a SP5 (T) and was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Parachute Badge, and Army Commendation Medal. After returning home, Ron moved to Detroit to find work. In Detroit, his brother Dave set Ron up on a blind date with Eileen Deuel. They were married on December 7, 1968 and together they raised their three children. Ron worked for Ford in the Sterling Heights plant where he was a skilled trade machine repairman. He worked for Ford for 33 years before retiring in 2001. The day he retired, Ron and Eileen moved to the U.P. to build their home in Chatham. Ron and Eileen used to bowl in leagues and enjoyed camping. Eileen suggested getting a tent and going camping, Ron said “I spent the last year living in a tent.” , but he obliged, and they eventually upgraded to a travel trailer and camped all over Michigan. Ron loved the outdoors and hunting. He was proud member of the Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA), Disabled American Veterans (DAV), Ikkala Brothers Post of the Veterans of Foreign War (VFW) Post 9714, American Legion Post 131, and Knights of Columbus. Ron was an active and faithful member of the Alger County Veterans Honor Guard.  He was an avid deer hunter and enjoyed golfing.

Ron is survived his wife – Eileen Erickson of Chatham; children – Deanna (James) Howell of Whitmore Lake, MI, Ronald Erickson, Jr. of Grand Ledge, MI, and Robert Erickson of Auburn Hills, MI; grandchildren – Shelby (Danny) Barnes, Megan, Ryan, and Abby Erickson; great-grandson – Bennett Barnes; brother-in-law – Jim Mahon; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents – Dick and Dolly; grandson – Matthew Swiden; sister – Gloria Mahon; and brothers – Dave and Mike Erickson.

Graveside services will be held on Saturday, July 5, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at Maple Grove Cemetery where the Alger County Veterans Honor Guard will render military honors.