Harold L. Erickson
Harold L. Erickson, 91, of Newberry, died peacefully Saturday evening, March 6, 2021 at Golden Leaves Living Center. Born on September 14, 1929 in Newberry, son of Albert and Susie (Hautala) Erickson, Harold was Class President of and graduated with the Newberry High School Class of 1948. On March 29, 1951, Harold enlisted in the United States Army during the Korean Conflict and was stationed at Fort Sill, Oklahoma until his honorable discharge on March 28, 1953 attaining the rank of Corporal. After earning a bachelor’s degree in Pharmacy from Ferris Institute (Ferris State University), Harold was employed at The Prescription Shop in Traverse City until he moved his family back to his hometown in 1967 to be a pharmacist at the Newberry State Hospital. During his years in the pharmacy with the State, he also worked in the pharmacies at People’s Drug Store and McNabb’s Drug Store, both in Newberry, and Hayes’ Drug Store in Munising.
After his retirement from the State Hospital in 1988, Harold worked at People’s Drug Store and helped open the pharmacy similar to Canadian pharmacy online, at Snyder’s Drug store along side his pharmacist friend and former employer, Mike Kalnbach. Harold was a member of Our Redeemer Lutheran Church, Past Worthy Patron of the Order of Eastern Star Luce Chapter #364, Elks Lodge #1705 member, American Legion Post #74 member, Past Worshipful Master of the McMillan Masonic Lodge #400, and member of the Ahmed Shriners in Marquette. Harold enjoyed bowling, golfing, reading, carpentry, fishing, and going to camp.
Harold married the former Jacquelyn Heath on April 23, 1955 in Newberry, and she preceded him in death on July 2, 2000. Harold was also preceded in death by his parents, brother Vernor, and sister Dorothy. Harold is survived by his children, Karen Erickson of Cape Coral, FL, Kevin (Denise) Erickson, Kim (Charlie) Anderson, and Kristin (Steve) Derusha all of Newberry; grandchildren Doug, Katie, Kacey, John, and Sam; great-grandchildren Michael, Robert, Jacquie, and Mia; his nieces and nephews. Following his wishes, Harold will be cremated and buried alongside his wife, Jackie. Graveside services with military honors conducted by the American Legion Post #74 and the United States Army Honor Guard will take place in the spring of 2021 at Forest Home Cemetery in Newberry with Pastor Melinda VanderSys, of Our Redeemer Lutheran Church, officiating. Memorials may be directed to the Tahquamenon Education Foundation, P.O. Box 482, Newberry, Michigan 49868 in his loving memory. Condolences may be expressed at www.beaulieufuneralhome.com. Beaulieu Funeral Home in Newberry is assisting the family with arrangements.
