Death Notices

ERICKSON, J. Erling (April 16, 1930 - June 29, 2010) - 80, was welcomed into the presence of his Lord & Saviour at the Norfolk General Hospital, Simcoe on Tuesday, June 29th, 2010 after a long and courageous battle with cancer.  He was predeceased by his parents John and Irma Erickson, Thunder Bay.  Lovingly remembered by his wife of 59 years Effie (nee Perry), daughter Melodie and her husband Dean Hewer, grandsons Trevor and Sean. Dear brother and brother-in-law of Lynden Erickson (Karen); Eric Perry (Tillie); Gordon Perry (Olga); Mabel Mark; Ray Perry (Eva); Shirley Fron; Thomas Bell (Tillie).  Remembered fondly by many nieces and nephews. He was born in Thunder Bay and worked at Boyd and Sohlman Construction prior to his career in education, which brought him to Simcoe. He was the shop co-ordinator at Glendale Adult Training Center, prior to his promotion to Burtch Correctional Institution where he was Principal of Education until his retirement. While in education, he was President and founding member of the association “OASAR - Ontario Association for Students at Risk”, which continues to be an active association seeking to meet the needs of marginalized students throughout various segments of society. He was an active church member throughout his life - acting as Choir Director at Westfort Baptist Church (Thunder Bay), Bethel Baptist Church, and Emmanuel Bible Church where he was a member until his passing. He was an award-winning photographer in the Fort William Camera Club and enjoyed woodworking, computers, and photography throughout his life.  A memorial service will be held in celebration of Erling’s life at Emmanuel Bible Church, 24 Churchill Circle, Simcoe on Tuesday July 13th, 2010 at 11:30 a.m. with Pastor Steve Faulkner officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations payable to Camp Oochigeas (A camp for children with cancer) (www.ooch.org) and Extreme Response Canada (www.extremeresponse.org/canada) would be great appreciated by the family and may be made through the JASON SMITH FUNERAL CHAPEL, 689 Norfolk St. North  Simcoe, ON  N3Y 3R3.  Personal online condolences at www.smithfuneralchapel.com  (519) 426-0199