Services for Alton Erickson
Alton Erickson, age 87, of Erskine, MN, passed away on Sunday, July 24th, at his home. A private family memorial service will be held on Friday, July 29th at 10:00 a.m. at the Carlin-Hoialmen Funeral Home in Erskine with Rev. Timothy Lundeen officiating. Interment of cremains will be in Gosen Cemetery, rural Erskine. Arrangements are with the Carlin-Hoialmen Funeral Home of Erskine. Messages of condolence may be sent to carlinhoialmen.com.
Alton Erling Erickson was born on September 20, 1928 on the Historic Groth Farm in Clermont Iowa, the son of Albert and Alma (Groth) Erickson. He was baptized at the Groth Farm, confirmed at Gosen Church, rural McIntosh, MN, and was a longtime member of Grace Lutheran Church, Erskine MN. Alton attended Sarah View Country School in rural Erskine through the 8th grade. He then went on to the Agriculture School in Crookston, MN.
He was united into marriage to Patricia Jeul Varty on December 4, 1950 in Erskine, MN. Alton and Patty made their home on the family farm on Bradley Lake in Knute Township and were blessed with 10 children whom he loved dearly.
Alton started out his younger years as a plumber but soon decided that his true passion was to farm. For many years he raised potatoes and grain crops while working alongside Patty and his children on the farm.
He was very passionate about animals and the wildlife that he frequently would see roaming his farm. He loved fishing and would do this with his family and his longtime fishing buddies.
He was proud of his beautiful farm and loved it when anyone would stop by for a visit so he could strike up a good conversation.
On Sunday, July 24, 2016 at the age of 87 years, 10 months and 4 days, Alton passed away at his home right where he wanted to be.
Survivors include eight daughters; Paula (Jim) Caldwell, Eldora (Bryan) Paradis, Karlene (Larry) Lightfoot, Lesly (Lee) Tradewell, Ardis (Tal) Lucken, Melisa (Erik) Nymann, Barb (Torrey) Erickson and Wendy Smeby. He is also survived by nineteen grandchildren and nineteen great grandchildren; and sisters-in law Tela Bemis and Lois Otto.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife Patty; three sons, Stephen, Sam and Eric; and son-in-law Milton (Pete) Kolden.
Alton will be remembered by his love for his family, his beautiful farm and his dog Lucky.
May God Bless the memory of Alton Erickson
