Clarence Walter Erickson

Clarence Erickson was born prematurely on the family farm in Donnybrook, ND on March 19, 1923. He was nursed to health by his dedicated parents, Richard and Nellie (Hansen) Erickson. He was so tiny he fit in a shoe box. He received his education and graduated from Donnybrook High School in 1941.

Clarence joined the US Navy and was stationed at San Diego, CA, serving as highest AOM 3rd Class. He was honorably discharged on May 2, 1946.

Clarence married Lorraine Anderson on November 7, 1942. They lived and worked in the Kenmare area for several years. They moved to Blaisdell, ND in 1948, where Clarence worked as a Standard Oil Bulk Agent. In 1957, he was transferred to Parshall, ND, continuing to work as a bulk agent for a time. Clarence and Lorraine were instrumental in starting a Baptist church in Parshall. Clarence accepted a position with Parshall High School as head custodian of the new high school. He took great pride in his work and made many friends with teachers and students alike. He also worked part time at the Parshall Post Office.

In 1970, he moved his family to Fargo, ND and worked full time for the US Post Office as a clerk until his retirement in 1988. Clarence enjoyed many hobbies throughout his lifetime, including woodworking, counted cross stitch, Brazilian embroidery, and oil painting. He has made many keepsake items for his family plus had a small business of CL&K Crafts. He also enjoyed Sudoku puzzles and playing card games with family and friends. Clarence was an avid NDSU Bison football fan and season ticket holder, attending every home game he could for over 20 years. He loved spending time with his family and made several trips to Kansas to see his daughter, grandchildren, and great grandchildren.

Clarence was an active member of Calvary Church at Village Green. He has served as an elder, Sunday School teacher, and was an active greeter even in his later years. He loved to sing and be with his church family.

Clarence and Lorraine have two daughters, Sharon (Roger) Unruh, and Kay Erickson. Clarence continued to live independently in his own home and was assisted in care by his daughter, Kay.

Clarence entered the hospital on March 17, 2014. He had several setbacks to planned procedures and died very peacefully in the palliative care center on April 1, 2014.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and wife of 59 ½ years.

He is survived by his two daughters, Sharon (Roger) Unruh, Olathe, KS; Kay Erickson, West Fargo, ND; sister, Ruth (Russel) Torkelson, Kenmare, ND; granddaughters, Amy (John) Comstock, Gardner, KS, and Amber (DeWayne Ables), Olathe, KS; six great-grandchildren: Kennedy, Landon and Addison Comstock; Samuel, Jacob, and Elijah Ables; two nephews, two nieces, and many cousins.