Richard Erickson, 78
Richard Simon Erickson, 78, passed away peacefully at home on Nov. 13, 2023 in Libby, Montana.
He was born in Grantsburg, Wisconsin on Nov. 26, 1944 to Reuben and Mabel Erickson.
The Ericksons moved to Missoula in the early 1950’s where Richard attended school, graduating from Missoula County High School in 1962.
After graduating, he enlisted in the United States Army in 1963 and proudly served his nation until 1966. He went on to obtain his Bachelors of Science in Forestry from the University of Montana in 1971.
During college, Richard married Rosie Chord in 1969. Their first child, Eve, was born in 1972. Soon after she arrived, they moved to Juneau, Alaska for two years.
In 1974, they returned to Montana, settling in Kalispell, where their second child Jason was born. Richard and Rosie lived in Evergreen where their children attended elementary school until they decided to part ways in 1986.
He worked for The Missoulian newspaper for several years in Kalispell, then went on to do contract work for the United States Postal Service. He eventually made his way to Semitool, where he happily worked until his retirement.
In 1989, Richard married the love of his life, Cheryl Miller. They resided in Marion until Cheryl passed away in 2003. His happiest times were enjoying an adult beverage with Cheryl while sitting at the campfire with their dog Blue.
After losing Cheryl, Richard passed his time pursuing his favorite activities; car rides and exploring the southwest with Blue, fishing, drinking beers at the VFW, and chasing women too young for him.
He is survived by his children, Eve Rutherford (Brent), Jason Erickson (Amy); step-daughter, Shannon Allard (Brett); step-sons, Michael Jasperson and Cameron Hudiburgh (Ashley); six grandchildren; Walker, Christian, Kiana, Knox, Dirk and Ashley; and three great-grandchildren.
His beloved bulldog Gidget misses him terribly and all the jerky treats he fed to her.
A celebration of Richard's life for will take place from 2 p.m. - 4 p.m. on Dec. 2, at the VFW in Libby.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to your local animal shelter or animal rescue.