Donald David Erickson

Donald David Erickson

November 17, 1928 - August 11, 2022

Send Flowers

Obituary

MADISON - Donald David Erickson, age 93, passed away on Thursday, Aug. 11, 2022. He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Mary (Brown) Erickson; daughter, Karla (Will) Ashmore; son, David (Tracy) Erickson; and son-in-law, Michael Meissen. Other survivors include his grandchildren, Kristina (Nick) Navarro-Krupka, Bradley (Lauren) Meissen, Katelyn (Jake) Keller, Justin (Allie) Ashmore, Kellie Ashmore, and Wes and Jamie Erickson; and great-grandchildren, Madelyn, Beau, Sarah, Anna, Jack, James and Hannah. He is preceded in death by his parents, David Erickson and Annie (McNichol) Erickson; sister, Rogene Erickson; daughters, Kristin Erickson and Karen Meissen; and many other relatives.

Don was born in Fond du Lac, Wis., on Nov. 17, 1928. He had many interests, but time with family was number one. He loved music, golfing, traveling, and singing at many family members’ weddings and other events.

After 40 years with the Wisconsin National Guard, Don retired with the rank of Chief Warrant Officer-4 with honors in 1989. During these 40 years he concurrently served the State of Wisconsin, retiring as the Public Information Officer for the Wisconsin Department of Military Affairs.  He was inducted into the Wisconsin Hall of Honor which represents lifetime achievements for contributions to the Wisconsin National Guard. He received an Army Commendation Medal and the Legion of Merit, which is the highest award presented to civilian military personnel.

Private family services will be held for Don. Memorials, if desired, may be sent to the Badger Honor Flight, the UW American Family Children’s Hospital, or the First Tee Program. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson East

Funeral & Cremation Care

5203 Monona Drive

(608) 221-5420

 

 

 

 

 

Events

There are no events for Donald yet.

Photos

Add photos
of Donald
Memorial wall photo

Memories

Add a memory of
Donald
LS
Larry F. Sommers
Other •
Don Erickson was a man who gave me one of the great opportunities of my life by hiring me to work with him in the Public Affairs Office of the Wisconsin National Guard. He always expressed firm confidence and made me feel a valued part of the team. He was a kind and humane mentor and leader, and I shall miss him greatly. Best wishes to Mary, Karla, and David in this time of bereavement. Larry F. Sommers
JF
John F Fisher
Other •
My father, MSgt (Ret)Fred H Fisher served under Don in State Hq Det. A fine officer, a good soldier, many good memories. May he rest in peace. CW4 (Ret) John F Fisher
VL
Vicki & Jeff Lanzendorf
Other •
So very sorry to hear of Don's passing. Jeff and I always enjoyed chatting with him on Lakeview Avenue. May he rest in eternal peace, and my his family find comfort in happy memories.

Share memorial