James “Jim” Martin Erickson, our dear father and grandfather, passed away on Tuesday, October 19, 2021 at the age of 83. Jim was the oldest son of Marvin Homer Erickson and Monica Elizabeth (Kressly) Erickson who made their home in New Richmond, Wisconsin. Jim was preceded in death by his parents and his beloved wife of 52 years Diana Lee (Hicks) Erickson of El Paso. He is survived by his siblings: Marvin of Tucson, AZ, LeRoy of Arlington, TX, David of San Angelo, TX, and Mary Vigliotti of Palm Beach Gardens, FL; his four children: Karin, James Jr., Kristin Perez all of El Paso, and John of Raleigh, NC; and his five grandchildren: James Erickson III, Emily, Seth, and Nathan Perez all of El Paso, and Annie Erickson of Raleigh, NC.
Jim was born in New Richmond, WI on February 18, 1938. After finishing high school in Redford Township, MI, Jim graduated from The University of Detroit. Jim was commissioned as an officer in the United States Army and achieved the rank of Lieutenant Colonel during his 22 years of military service. He met his wife Diana in El Paso while stationed at Fort Bliss. They were married September 10, 1966 upon his return from Vietnam. While serving in the military, Jim studied mechanical engineering at New Mexico State University and earned a Master’s degree. After retiring from the Army, Jim remained active in real estate, property management with his wife, carpentry, and volunteer organizations. Jim was an integral member of the Lions Club, the Five Points Development Association, and the El Paso Apartment Association Governmental Affairs Committee. Jim grew to love his home in El Paso and was a champion for business development in the community as well as a loyal UTEP athletics supporter.
Jim was a man of principle. He lived his life with integrity, purpose, and authenticity. Jim was a faithful Catholic, starting from St. Mary School in New Richmond, WI to attending Mass religiously in adulthood. Jim was a life-long scholar and mused about economic philosophy, United States history, and current events — often over breakfast with his close friends. He loved a good laugh, a cup of fresh coffee, and a medium-rare steak for dinner. People who met Jim will remember his firm handshake, steady eye contact, keen intellect, and warm smile. Jim loved his family deeply and enjoyed guiding them through the journey of life with wisdom. He will be missed greatly by many.
Visitation for Jim will be held on Sunday, October 31, 2021 from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM with Vigil at 6:00 PM at Funeraria del Angel Central, 3839 Montana Ave, El Paso, TX 79903. Mass will be held on Monday, November 1, 2021 at 9:30 AM at Our Lady of Assumption Catholic Church, 4800 Byron St. El Paso, TX 79930. Committal to follow at Ft. Bliss National Cemetery, 5200 Fred Wilson Ave, El Paso, TX 79906.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to St. Mary School in New Richmond, Wisconsin. St. Mary School is Jim's beloved elementary alma mater, a Catholic-based school which emphasizes moral education, community, and service to others. Donors may click on the link below: Jim Erickson Memorial Fund.
