Wally R. Erickson "Rawhide"

Wally R. Erickson "Rawhide" 92, of Iron River, peacefully passed away on Saturday, May 6, 2017 at the Oscar G. Johnson VA Medical Center in Iron Mountain with his family at his side. He was born on June 22, 1924 in Iron River, son of the late Reinhold and Hilda (Johnson) Erickson. He attended the Iron River Schools, graduating from Iron River High School in 1942. Upon graduation, Wally enlisted in the United States Army in 1943 where he was stationed in the Asiatic Pacific during WWII, and Honorably discharged in 1946. After returning home from serving his country, Wally played Semi-Professional Football for the Steelers. He married Mary Ann Sawicky on February 3, 1951 at the Blessed Sacrament Church in Stambaugh. He went to work at the Hannah Mining Company, and retired as the Maintenance Supervisor after 35 years of service. He then went to work part-time for Meyers Meat Packing Company as an Inspector. Wally organized the Lucky Horseshoe 4-H Saddle Club which he was a part of for many years. He lived on a farm raising cattle and horses. He enjoyed his tractors, making hay and always had a large garden and pumpkin patch. He loved to give the pumpkins away to the kids and his vegetables away to others in the area. He was also extremely proud of his pear trees. He worked for 9 years at the Fairgrounds, and was a life member of the Iron River VFW Post #3134. Wally is survived by his loving wife of more than 66 years, Mary Ann Erickson of Iron River; his children, Rick (Lisa) Erickson of Iron River, and Ronald (Joyce) Erickson of Pulaski, WI,; 5 Grandchildren and 4 Great Grandchildren; a sister, Esther Guzowski of Iron River; several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, a sister, Hazel Wysong, and brother Clarence R. Erickson. The Visitation will be on Thursday, June 22, 2017 from 10:00 am to 12 Noon at the Nash Funeral Home in Crystal Falls. The Funeral Service will follow at 12 Noon at the funeral home. Fr. Raymond Valerio will officiate. Burial will be in the Bates Township Cemetery. In lieu of flowers a memorial will be established in his memory. Wally's family wishes to extend a special Thank you to the staff at Bellin Hospital and the VA Hospital. Condolences to the family of Wally R. Erickson "Rawhide" can be expressed online at www.nashfuneralhome.net The family has entrusted the Nash Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Crystal Falls with the arrangements.

Wally R. Erickson "Rawhide"

June 22, 1924 - May 6, 2017