Ronald Leland Erickson

Ronald Leland Erickson passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family on July 28, 2018 at the age of 80. He was born September 16, 1937 in Salt Lake City, UT to Ernest Gustave Jr. and Thelma Eccles Erickson.

Ron bravely battled Lewy Body Dementia for the last several years with wonderful and selfless support from his sweetheart Elaine. He faced his adversities with grace, strength and the resolve to fight and not give in.

Ron grew up in Rose Park and graduated from West High School. Following high school, he enlisted in the United States Navy where he served aboard several ships specializing in electronics. He was so proud to have served his country and remained fiercely patriotic. After an honorable discharge from the Navy, he worked for RCA on national defense systems in Alaska.

In 1961 Ron joined IBM where he worked for 33 years. He was very proud of his work at IBM. While working there he maintained hardware, software and supported local and regional management operations. He developed and taught courses both internally and to customers about how to plan for and manage disasters that would affect the technical operations of a business. While at IBM he had the opportunity to participate in a faculty loan program where he supported the Indian Studies Program at Brigham Young University.

While working at IBM full time and raising a family, he continued his studies and graduated Magna Cum Laude from the University of Utah in 1973.

He finished his professional career working for the State of Utah in the Department of Administrative Rules.

In the spring of 1961 Ron met the love of his life Elaine Shaw. They quickly fell in love and were married on October 6, 1961 in the Salt Lake LDS Temple. They began their life together in Rose Park, and in 1968 built their home in Bountiful where they raised their family and continue to make memories. Their home has always been a refuge from the world for family and friends. They welcome all into their home with open arms.

After retiring, Ron spent time helping Elaine care for the grandchildren. He would often pick them up from school and drive them back to his home. These short trips with Grandpa were special to the grandchildren. They often had great discussions and learned many things. He took this opportunity to introduce them to classical music. Unfortunately, most did not enjoy it quite as much as he did.            

Ron was an active member of the LDS Church and served in many callings during his life. While he seldom taught classes, he was always very actively involved in discussions, sharing his feelings and knowledge with others. His belief in the Plan of Salvation gave him peace while battling his illness. He knew he would soon join loved ones who had passed on before him, and in time, would also be reunited with those he has left behind.

Ron's greatest joy was his family. He loved and supported them in all their activities and sports. Most of all he enjoyed being home, surrounded by his family making and sharing memories.

He was a kind and loving man. He was often found fixing things in his shop, on the cars or around the house. Always prepared, he readily helped friends, neighbors and family to make household repairs and was frequently sharing his knowledge – and tools – with others.

He is survived by his eternal sweetheart Elaine, children Patty (Reed); Sheryl (Todd); Mike (Sharon); Brian (JaNece); 9 grandchildren, 5 great grandchildren, and brothers Bob (Renee) and Steve (Jan). He was preceded in death by his parents and older brother Wally.

A viewing will be held Thursday, August 2nd from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at Russon Mortuary, 295 No. Main Street, Bountiful. Funeral services will be held Friday, August 3rd at 11:00 AM at the North Canyon 5th Ward chapel at 2505 So. Davis Blvd, Bountiful. Prior to the services there will be a viewing at the chapel from 9:30 to 10:30 AM. Interment will follow at the Bountiful City Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers we request that you consider donating to the Lewy Body Dementia Association (www.lbda.org).