Ruth Erickson Obituary

Erickson, Ruth Lois (Haarz) 94, longtime resident of Western Springs passed away on May 18, 2013, at her daughter's home in Fenton, Michigan, where she had resided for the last year. Ruth grew up in Chicago where she married her devoted husband of more than 50 years, the late William Erickson. She was the beloved mother of Karen (Erickson) Eichler of Fenton, Michigan, Bill Erickson of Longboat Key Florida, and John Erickson of Gulfport Florida; and mother-in-law of Larry Eichler, the late Shirley Erickson, Missy Erickson, and Norie Erickson. She was Grandma Ruth to Laurie (Eichler) Stiers and Eric Eichler of Fenton, Michigan, and Michael Eichler of Baton Rouge Louisiana; Grandma to David and Christopher Erickson of Sarasota and Nana to Kirsten and Kelli Erickson of Gulfport. She will also be fondly remembered by her great-grandsons, Dustan Eichler, Karsten and Jensen Stiers of Fenton, and Amauri Erickson of Sarasota. Ruth made the First Congregational Church of Western Springs her church home and was an active member of the Woman's Society for many years. A self-taught musician, Ruth was known for her exceptional talent for playing the piano. One activity she especially enjoyed was providing the background music for the Goodwill fashion shows. She spent the last chapter of her life with her loving partner Chester Harris (now of Austin Texas). They enjoyed an active social life traveling, visiting their children, and playing bridge. Her life centered around family and friends. Ruth sought in all ways to live a spiritual life and find the good in everyone. A memorial service will be held in the Memorial Garden of the First Congregational Church of Western Springs at 1:00 on Friday, June 28, with a reception following in the church parlor.