Obituary: Marlin Erickson

Marlin Erickson

New Rockford N.D.

Marlin "Pete" Erickson, age 91, of New Rockford, N.D, formerly of McHenry, N.D, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loved ones on Saturday, September 16, 2023, at Sanford Hospital in Fargo, N.D.

Pete's visitation will be Tuesday, September 26, 2023, from 1-5 p.m. with family present from 3-5 p.m. at Evans Funeral Home, New Rockford, N.D. A funeral service will be held Wednesday, September 27, 2023, at 1 p.m. at Evans Funeral Home, Carrington, N.D. A private family burial will take place at Bethlehem Cemetery, McHenry.

Honorary bearers will be all of Pete's grandchildren and great-grandchildren.Marlin "Pete' Erickson was born on July 5, 1932, to Oscar and Clara (Forde) Erickson on the farm north of McHenry, N.D. He attended Paradise Township grade school, two-and-a-half miles from the farm. He graduated from McHenry High School in 1950.

Pete met Lois Vance while attending school in McHenry. They married on October 1, 1953. Together they raised five children and kept a busy farm going for sixty-two years. It was a typical family farm, growing small grains, and a large garden, raising sheep, chickens, horses and cattle. Pete was particularly proud of his Hereford cattle. He understood their value and prided himself on giving his cows the best care. Pete loved his border collies and always said they were the best hired "man" a farmer could have. It's quite possible there are more photos of the dogs than of his children. He was equally proud that in 2003 the farm was recognized as an operating Centennial Farm, now in its fourth generation.

Over the years, Pete was a dedicated member of many service boards, including Our Saviors Lutheran Church Council, McHenry School Board, Bethlehem Cemetery, McHenry Ambulance and Fire Department and the New Rockford Community Credit Union. Pete also served on the Eddy County Social Service board for 19 years and was the clerk/treasurer for Paradise Township for 50 years. Pete had a great sense of humor and loved giving good-natured teasing to dear friends and loved ones. He could strike up a conversation with anyone (whether they wanted to visit or not). He believed in working hard, being a good steward of the land, and providing for his family the best he could.

Pete is survived by his wife, Lois, of 69 years; his five children: Gary Erickson, Laurie Erickson, Michael (Lisa) Erickson, Corey (Melissa) Erickson and Christy (Doug) Leier; five grandchildren: Malynda (Travis) Iglehart, Sean (Chelsea) Erickson, Craig (Sarah) Erickson, Taylor (Samantha) Erickson and Jennifer Erickson; 12 great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Myrna Sweeney.

The family would like to thank everyone for their condolences and prayers during this time. It has been greatly appreciated.

In lieu of flowers, the family prefers any memorials be sent to CHI Health at Home – Hospice at 367 2nd St. NW, Valley City, N.D. 58072, which will be directed to the Hospice services in the Carrington area.

Arrangements by Evans Funeral Home of New Rockford, N.D.