Kenneth N. Erickson

Kenneth N. Erickson, 71, died at the Mat-Su Regional Hospital in Palmer on Nov 30, 2010.

He was born Nov. 22, 1939, in Fairdale N.D., to Edwin and Clarice Erickson. He graduated from U.N.D in 1964 with a LLB and was awarded with Juris Doctorate in 1969, He worked as an attorney for the state of North Dakota. He taught math and algebra on Standing Rock Indian Reservation in N.D.

He married Norma Walker on May 21, 1983. Ken came to Alaska in 1970 and lived his Alaska dream. He lived in a one-room log cabin and loved hunting and fishing with his two step-sons Stan and Jim Walker, who were also his caregivers during his fight with diabetes and dementia. He raised St. Bernard’s and trained his World Champion weight puller, Leo, who officially weighed 205 pounds.

Erickson was a member of the Independent Baptist Church of Big Lake and AARP. He was an EMT and volunteer firefighter in the ’70s and was self-employed as a carpenter. As Field Supervisor for the 1990 and 2000 census, he traveled all over Alaska and enjoyed a pair of honeymooners he had on his remote crew. He enjoyed life to the fullest and was a kind, generous, brave man who fought diabetes most of his life.

He is survived by sisters Elaine Knudson of Harris, Minn., and Elva Guillixon of Waupeca, Wisc., and 17 step-grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren, nephews and nieces.

He was preceded in death by his stepdaughter Sandra Supple and brothers Lynn Erickson, Walhalla, N.D. and Don Erickson, Sheep Creek.

A memorial service will be held later. Donations may be made to charity of choice.

Cremation took place at Alaskan Heritage Memorial Chapel and Crematory of Wasilla and his ashes will be scattered later.