Charles L. Erickson
Gwinn
Charles Lee ‘Chuck’ Erickson, 62, of Gwinn passed away suddenly with his family by his side at the emergency Room of UP Health System Marquette on Friday morning, September 30, 2016 after suffering from a heart attack.
Chuck was born September 14, 1954 in Ishpeming to Charles M. and Eleanor Jean (Theall) Erickson. He started his life in Little Lake where his mom tied him to clothes line so he wouldn’t get hit by a train. The family then moved to Gwinn, where he became a lifelong resident. He and his sister would follow the family to watch baseball tournaments. Just like his father, Chuck was proud of his Erickson roots, getting to grow up with a large family and all of his cousins.
Chuck graduated from Gwinn High School, Class of 1973, where he made many lifelong friends. He immediately began his working career for Cleveland Cliffs at the Empire Mine and ordered his black short box Chevy. During that time, he enjoyed fishing, Family Tavern pool league, Escanaba River canoe trips, buzzin’ the gut with his long hair, and being at the ball field.
Chuck raised two beautiful daughters and grandchildren that he adored more than words could describe. He moved to Johnson Lake where he would be forever content. Chuck enjoyed listening to Detroit Tigers baseball, Nascar, Seinfeld, hostess cupcakes, driving his pontoon yelling “Stella!”, and staying at camp.
He was blessed to retire at the early age of 49 after 31 years at the mine. The last years of his life were spent with his wife Holly, enjoying retirement on the back porch at Johnson Lake, building the sauna, garage, and garden.
His family is proud to say that Chuck was liked by everyone. They feel comfortable knowing that God needed the best pontoon driver in Heaven.
Chuck was preceded in death by his father, Charles M. Erickson. Surviving are his mother Jean, his wife of 12 years, Holly (Garceau) Erickson, 2 daughters: Rebekah and Hannah, a grandson Charlie, a granddaughter Wren, his sister Vicki (Kurt) Hedstrom and their family Kurt, Holly, Heidi, and Kurtie.
Memorial services will be held at 3:00 pm on Wednesday, October 5th at Gwinn United Methodist Church with Rev. Ronald Fike officiating. The family will greet relatives and friends from 1:00 pm until the time of services at 3:00 pm at the church on Wednesday, and also at a luncheon in the church hall following services.
Chuck’s memorial page may be viewed at koskeyfuneralhome.com, where memories and condolences may be shared.