WILMINGTON — Richard Cairns Erickson, 81, passed away at the Lower Cape Fear Hospice on October 20,2024.
Richard was born May 25, 1943, and raised in Englewood, New Jersey by his beloved mother, Doris Erickson. He is survived by his brother Charles Erickson, his wife of 56 years, Sally Erickson, their daughter Jill, son-in-law Michael, and grandchildren Bodie and Flynn.
Richard was a long time beach fanatic, poker player, flute player, golfer, cigar smoker and bourbon connoisseur. A proud member of the Lycoming College chapter of Theta Chi, he was a good brother and friend. He never met a stranger. He loved to be helpful, often dressing as Santa to bring joy to children. He could devour a milkshake with great speed. Rich wasn’t just the life of the party, he was the party.
He and his wife, Sally, were avid travelers. Together they journeyed all over the world. A graduate of Purdue, he enjoyed supporting his beloved Boilermakers. It brought him great joy to watch his grandson, Bodie, play football for Laney High School. Richard loved to sneak cookies, take one too many mulligans while playing golf with his son-in-law, Michael, and spoiling Flynn.
But his best day was when he met his daughter, Jill. He was made to be her Dad. Richard was not a perfect man. However, while he was here, he loved well. And in return – was loved by many.
Richard’s memorial will be a bright celebration of his life at Eastwood Community Church, 702 Eastwood Rd, Wilmington, NC 28403 on November 9th at 5:00 pm. Please wear bright colors in his honor.
In lieu of flowers please consider donating to Brunswick County’s Habitat for Humanity.
