Obituary of Douglas (Doug) Brian Erickson

June 26, 1951 - Killam, Alberta
September 21, 2021 - Calgary, Alberta

Douglas (Doug) Erickson, loved husband of Jeri Lynne Erickson of Calgary, AB, passed away suddenly on Tuesday, September 21, 2021 at the age of 70 years old.  

He spent his childhood in Killam, AB, where he was born to Harry and Amy Erickson on June 26, 1951.  He spent many summers on his sister’s farm in Viking, AB, working side by side with the men and at a young age, learned the satisfaction of a hard day’s work;  this early sense of responsibility and focused determination extended throughout his life.  Doug was a talented, intelligent, creative and extremely capable man. He had a powerful presence everywhere he went. It seemed whatever task he set his hand to he was able to achieve mastery in it.  

His persistence led him to university, where he got his Bachelor of Education degree.  Later on, Doug would pursue a Masters degree in Administration. In his 33 year teaching career, he was fondly remembered as someone who took a keen interest in his students’ lives, not just academically but in all areas of their lives.  He took the phrase “in parentis absentia” to heart and cared deeply about the welfare of those in his charge. When he retired, it was likely no surprise to anyone that he continued to work. His post career jobs included, school bus driver, warehouse supervisor of a coffee distribution centre and finally, at Lee Valley Tools where he just received a certificate marking ten years of service and contribution.  He loved working there and Jeri Lynne often referred to Lee Valley as “daycare for old retired guys”. There he forged many friendships. He especially enjoyed serving people who he previously knew from his teaching days in Strathmore. 

Doug had three sons with his first wife Judy and they were the pride of his life. Theirs was a busy home full of all the activities of raising a family. In 2004, he met his second wife, Jeri Lynne who also had three sons from a previous marriage and the happy days of having six sons over for Sunday dinners began! Doug often said, “If it’s worth doing, it’s worth overdoing.”  Anyone who has had the pleasure of sitting at his table knows just how true that was!  It was one of their favourite ways to show love.

In the last several years, Doug rediscovered fishing and hunting, even a couple summers working the pipeline with Power Dozer; jumping into his new-old pastimes with a passion. He acquired Shiloh, a Brittany spaniel and joined a group of pheasant hunting friends in many adventures which he loved.  He will also be missed at the off-leash dog park where he and Shiloh were well-known. He had many hobbies and interests, all the while continually working on the never-ending projects involved in owning a home and garden.  Notably one of the legacies he leaves for his family members is his impressive, stunning collection of stained glass lamps and window panes, created by him over the years.  

Doug Erickson, Father, Papa, Husband, Brother, Teacher, Mentor, Gardener, Craftsman, Hunter, Outdoors-man, and Dog-lover and last but certainly not least, Chef.  His book of choice to read at bedtime was often a cookbook.  He had just prepared a large oriental dish on Sunday, two days before he died. He left us all much sooner than he meant to. We were not ready – he was not ready.  We are all still in shock from the tragedy and confusion about his sudden departure. What we know for sure when we die is that the people we leave will miss us and be sad.  It’s our turn to be profoundly sad about Doug leaving us far too early.

Besides his loving wife, Doug is survived by his sons,  Daniel Erickson (Rebecca Rettenmier) presently residing in Abu Dhabi, UAE,   Scott Erickson (Jenelle) and children, Wyatt and Emery of Calgary, AB,  Kevin Erickson (Jordyn) and children,  Ada and Soren of Red Deer,  AB;  his stepsons,  Jordan Lorentzon (Jami) and children, Hugo and Penny of Calgary, AB,  Brady Lorentzon (Lena) and children,  Ida, Milla and Levi of Hamburg, Germany, and Cameron Lorentzon (Amanda) and children,  Rowan and Flint of Calgary, AB. Doug is also survived by his sister Jean Maxwell (Norm) of Viking, AB;  brother Dale Erickson (Pat) of Sherwood Park,  AB,  twin brother  Don Erickson (Barb) of Edmonton, AB;  as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Funeral Services will be held at McInnis & Holloway (Park Memorial, 5008 Elbow Drive SW, Calgary, AB) on Friday, October 1, 2021 at 10:00 a.m. Reception to follow in the Hospitality Centre at the Funeral Home. Those attending will be asked to confirm one of the following, (A) COVID vaccination (date requested), OR (B) a negative COVID test (within 72 hours), OR (C) Medical exemption AND valid government identification (with name & date of birth) OR (D) Under 12 years of age. Family and friends who are unable to attend in person are invited to join Doug’s service streamed live (see below) on the day of the service. For those who are unable to view live, a recording of the service will be posted. Condolences, memories and photos can also be shared and viewed here.

If friends so desire, in lieu of flowers memorial tributes may be made directly to the Brown Bagging for Calgary's Kids, 223 12 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2R 0G9.Telephone: (403) 264-7979 https://bb4ck.org/give-once/.; a charity that supports a cause that was near and dear to Doug's heart.

In living memory of Doug Erickson, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Park Memorial, 5008 Elbow Drive SW, Calgary, AB T2S 2L5, Telephone: 403-243-8200.

Thank you for joining us for the live-streaming of this event 
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View Douglas Erickson's Memorial Card Here