Elwood Willard Woody Erickson

Elwood Willard “Woody” Erickson, 91, died January 20, 2018 at Catholic Care Memory Care in Bel Aire, KS surrounded by his daughter, resident friends and many of the capable and devoted nurses and caretakers who enriched his life for the 9 years he lived there. Woody was born in a small, Minnesota farm town on June 29, 1926. He was preceded in death by his parents, Neveda and Myron Erickson, and wife of 62 years, Jacqueline “Jackie” Erickson. His survivors include his daughter, Deborah (Jan Mark) Hoffman; sons, William M. “Bill” (Christine) and Jeffrey M. Erickson; sisters, Neva Mae Fundarek, Gloria Gallant; granddaughters, Emily Rose Hoffman, Destiny (with great-grandson, Ezra Sol) Erickson; grandsons, Sean and Jesse (Jennifer) Erickson (with great-grandson, Neloh), and Nathan Erickson; nieces, Edye (Wayne) Mizzi (with children, Dayne and Haley), Carrie Fundarek, Cindy Gallant. Despite growing up with an abusive father, Woody matured into a man of honor and integrity who was kind and caring to all. He had a wonderful singing voice which was enjoyed early on by many radio and nightclub listeners. He served just after WWII in the entertainment corps of the Army Air Force and was one of the first group of soldiers to arrive for the U.S. occupation of Japan after its surrender. He counted his experiences in Japan, along with the welcoming hospitality of its people, to be one of the highlights of his life. Putting aside his dream of becoming a professional singer, he dedicated his life to his family - working hard as a jack of many trades and raising his 3 children to be self-reliant and embrace the virtues that lead to good character. Over the years he enjoyed participating in several barbershop singing chorales. His love of listening, dancing, whistling, and singing to the music of his era lasted to the very end entertaining all around him. The family owes a debt of gratitude to Catholic Care Memory Care for enriching his years with Alzheimers Disease. His quality of life was extended by the expertise and compassionate care of his physicians, Dr. Gerald Niernberger (with staff, Cyndi, Kim, and Deb), and Dr. Elsie Steelberg (with nurse, JoAnn). We would also like to thank the staff of Kindred Hospice for the support and care they provided to both Woody and his daughter during his last few days. Private Family Service. A memorial has been established with: Alzheimers Association (www.alz.org). Downing & Lahey Mortuary - East Chapel.