Ray Erickson

Ray Erickson, 53, of Atlantic, IA, formerly of Jefferson, SD, passed away peacefully December 26, 2022, surrounded by family and friends at UNMC in Omaha, NE.

Raymond Harlon, Jr. was born on April 5, 1969, in Sydney, Australia, the eldest son of Raymond, Sr and Patricia (Hyland) Erickson. In June of 1970, the family moved to the United States.  He graduated from Jefferson High School in Jefferson, SD; later joining the Navy serving on the USS Iowa.  His love for the Navy and his country remained close to him throughout the rest of his life.  After his honorable discharge he settled in Atlantic, IA in 1990.  This is where he met the love of his life, Vicki Thompson, the couple married on September 24, 1990.

Ray worked at several nursing homes within the area, including Salem Lutheran Home in Elk Horn working as a CMA/CNA.  Due to health reasons, he retired in 2016. 

Ray and Vicki enjoyed traveling as a couple and also taking the grandchildren on adventures.  A few of their favorite trips included visiting family in England and several cruises.  His grandchildren, nieces and nephews were his world; and the time he spent with them was precious!

Ray is survived by his wife of 32 years, Vicki; granddaughter, Lily George; brothers, Samuel Erickson and Bill (Kelly) Erickson; sister, Jaclyn (Cory Moore) Saltzgiver; mother-in-law, Judy Thompson; brother-in-law, Jeff Thompson; nieces, Kylee Saltzgiver, Eva Saltzgiver and Trystan Erickson; nephews, Zeik (Kristen) Johnson and Garrett Erickson; lifelong friend, Corey Dennison; and special family friends, Sue Fischer, Samantha George and Ethan Christensen.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Raymond, Sr and Pat Erickson; sister in infancy, Rose Marie, father-in-law, Cliff Thompson; sister-in-law, Debbie Buscher; niece, Madeline Erickson; and nephew, William Erickson.

A Celebration of Life Memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Friday, January 6, 2023, at Roland Funeral Home in Atlantic.  A time of visitation with the family and refreshments will be held immediately following the service.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be directed to the family for designation at a later date.

Roland Funeral Service is caring for Ray’s family and his arrangements.  Condolences may be left at www.rolandfuneralservice.com.