Gary Alan Erickson, a beloved son, brother, uncle, and friend, passed away on April 14, 2023 in Norfolk, Virginia at the age of 67. Born in St. Cloud, Minnesota on November 22, 1955 to Donald and Valeria Erickson, Gary was the eldest brother of three siblings (Gary, Steven and Lynn).
Gary spent 25 years serving his country in the United States Navy, a job he took great pride in. He was known for his dedication and commitment. Gary’s love for traveling took him to many places around the world, but Spain always held a special place in his heart. He spent many happy times fishing with his brother Steve on the beautiful lakes of Minnesota. Gary shared a bond with his brother Steve, his sister Lynn and her family. They enjoyed spending quality time together at lakeside cabins in Minnesota, creating memories that will last a lifetime. Gary was an uncle to Brooke and Brady, whom he cherished deeply. In his later years, Gary dedicated much of his time to helping others navigate and overcome life hurdles.
Gary is survived by his brother, Steven Erickson, his sister, Lynn Nelson, and her husband, Mitch Nelson. He is also survived by his niece, Brooke Knowles, and her husband, Rye Knowles, as well as his nephew, Brady Nelson. Gary’s parents, Donald and Valeria Erickson preceded him in death.
Gary will be deeply missed and will be remembered for the lives he touched, and the memories he created with those who loved him. A celebration of Gary’s life will be held at a later date in St. Cloud Minnesota and the details will be shared by the family in upcoming weeks. Condolences may be left online at www.altmeyerfh.com
To Steven, Lynn & family, Gary became a very close friend of mine a little over 22 years ago, we played many a tennis game together where I got to learn just how competitive of a person Gary was. He was very hard to beat in a tennis game, and I only won a few times out of a few hundred games, lol. I just learned of his passing yesterday. I will cherish the many memories that I have with Gary & I’m sad that he has passed away. He was loved by many, and will by greatly missed.
Frederick M. Ritter III
To Steven and Lynn and family,
Sending our thoughts and prayers to you and yours at this very difficult time.
Gary was a wonderful person in High School and had many friends through his years at Apollo. We will miss him at our 50th Reunion. Was hoping he could make it this time. Even though he did not graduate with us on graduation day, he chose to serve our country instead. So sending much gratitude and thanks for serving our country.
We will miss you. God speed Gary. You’re one of our Apollo Angels. RIP
The Apollo Class of 1974 St. Cloud, MN.
May the love of God surround you and your family during this difficult time,
May you come to know that the love of God is with you always,
May your memories of Gary Alan Erickson, give you peace, comfort and strength…
Rest now in the arms of our Lord your mission on earth is complete.
I thank you for your service to our Country and my Freedom. You will not be forgotten.
My thoughts
and prayers to the family of ….
US Navy Veteran, Gary Alan Erickson, is “A True American Hero” God Bless†
† Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. John 15:13 †