Reid Alan Erickson

1969 – 2024

Reid Alan Erickson, of Lincoln, California, died at his home on Friday, May 31, 2024. He was 54 years old.

Reid was born on August 1, 1969 in Fort Collins, CO to Barbara Ann (Reid) and Robert Byron Erickson. His family relocated to Springfield, PA then Stone Mountain, GA where Reid graduated from Parkview High School in 1988. He then attended Valdosta State University and graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology. Reid served nine years as a lead falconer and wildlife biologist with The World Bird Sanctuary. Each year he trained and flew falcons to act as natural predators to other birds in order to reduce air strikes on US Air Force bases in New Jersey, Illinois and California. As he drove across the country between bases, he took the opportunity to camp at national parks and see much of the country he loved.

In 2002 Reid began his career in law enforcement with the California Highway Patrol. Reid served 22 years as an Officer and then Sergeant. He received positive commendations from supervisors, management and the community. In addition to working as a road officer, he spent time in administrative roles in the Commercial Vehicle Section and Emergency Notification Tactical Alert Center. As the Radiation Safety Officer, he was particularly interested in the transportation of radioactive and hazardous material and actively engaged in instruction and other related activities. He remained dedicated, honored, and proud to serve the state of California.

Reid loved spending time with his beloved wife, Christina, daughter Annora Teagan (16), son Finley Reid (14) and their two kitties Copper and Gray Jay. Some of their fondest memories are family trips, hiking and birdwatching together, family game night, and laughing together. His big laugh and boisterous personality were contagious and made everyone feel welcome. His annual New Year’s Day chili was a great example of his love of food and bringing people together, and will be missed by many. He had a strong curiosity, enthusiasm and passion for black and white photography, bird watching, whisk(e)y, and classical music. Over the last several years, he enjoyed attending each season of the Sacramento Symphony. When a subject piqued Reid’s interest, he strove to become an expert.

Reid was preceded in death by his brother Brant David Erickson who also had career in law enforcement. He is survived by wife Christina, two children, Annora and Finley, loving parents Barbara and Robert Erickson, younger sister Ann Cobb (Jeff), and his nieces and nephews. Reid will always be a deeply beloved son, husband, father, brother, and friend. He will truly be missed by all who loved him.

A memorial service will take place on June 14, 2024 at 1pm at Creekside Church, 290 Technology Way, Ste 300, Rocklin, CA 95765.

In lieu of flowers, and in consideration of Reid’s eight month battle with Glioblastoma, we ask that donations be made in Reid’s memory to the Brain Tumor Research Fund of UC Davis. Your donation will support the UC Davis Brain Tumor Program, an interdisciplinary team of researchers led by Reid’s Brain Surgeon in collaboration with his Neuro Oncologist and other clinician scientists. The research program is working to discover ways to detect glioblastoma earlier, deliver therapeutics more effectively, improve surgical outcomes for patients, and more.

https://give.ucdavis.edu/MNSG/BT41847