Mostly Cloudy, 25° F
(April 22, 1931 - Feb. 3, 2015)
Roger M. Erickson, 83, most recently of Powell, died Tuesday, Feb. 3, 2015, at the Swedish Medical Center in Englewood, Colo., following a brief illness.
Roger was born April 22, 1931, in Akron, Iowa, and grew up in Sioux City, Iowa. He served his country as a sergeant in the U.S. Air Reserve during the Korean War. After an honorable discharge, he attended and graduated from Morningside College with a bachelor of arts in English in l956.
Roger then dedicated 35 years of his life working for Boys Clubs of America, and was involved with the founding of chapters in Alameda, Calif., Omaha, Neb., and Rapid City, S.D. The latter organization is now known as the Rapid City Club for Boys.
Roger enjoyed hiking and exploring the Black Hills and Big Horns. He loved animals, and was never without a faithful dog by his side. He was an avid fan of college basketball. He often remarked the best thing about retirement was being able to spend time with his grandchildren.
He is survived by two sons, Christian and Shane; daughter Noelle Phillips; six grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and his wife Sandie.
Donations in Roger’s name may be made to the Rapid City Club for Boys, P.O. Box 907, Rapid City, SD 57709.
The family plans to celebrate his life in a private gathering this summer.
