Gary L. Erickson, age 73, passed away on Sunday, June 15, 2025 at Highland Park Care Center in Alliance, NE.
He was born on November 23, 1951 in Lincoln, NE to Edgar and Helen (Dietz) Erickson. His family came to Alliance in his childhood, where he attended St. Agnes Academy, graduating from there in 1969. While attending school, he served for many years at daily Mass at St. Joseph's Hospital Chapel.
Following graduation, Gary enlisted in the U.S. Navy, serving from March 26, 1970 until March 25, 1974. After his honorable discharge, Gary returned to Alliance and began working for Sloan Irrigation for a short time before hiring on the Burlington Northern Railroad. He retired from BNSF in 2015 after 41 years of service.
On December 3, 1982, he was united in marriage to Meredith Becker in Denver, CO.
He is survived by his wife, Meredith; his children, Justin Erickson (Jen Beckwith) of Machias, ME, Erik (Erin) Erickson of Conifer, CO, Shae (Kyndra) Erickson of Walla Walla, WA, and Murphy Dee Erickson of Omaha, NE. His grandchildren include Justin's three children Aiden, Gavin, and Maximus; and his two great-granddaughters Sopia and Vaeda; and Erik and Erin's son, Elijah Erickson. He is also survived by his sister, Carol Krohe, of Alliance, NE; his brothers, Mark of Linville, NE and Keith (Jamie) of Moore, OK; and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
A memorial service will be held on Friday, June 20, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. at Holy Rosary Catholic Church with Father Matt Koperski officiating. Burial will be in Calvary Cemetery with military honors.
Memorials may be given to Holy Rosary Catholic Church.
Online condolences may be left at www.batesgould.com, with Bates-Gould Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.