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Francis L. ‘Fran’ Erickson

Francis L. ‘Fran’ Erickson

BARK RIVER — Francis L. “Fran” Erickson, 74, of Bark River, passed away on Tuesday, May 23, 2023, at St. Vincent Hospital in Green Bay.

He was born on June 7, 1948, in Escanaba, the son of Lester S. Erickson and Eunice M. (Beauchamp) Coon. Fran was raised in Schaffer and graduated from Bark River-Harris High School in 1966.

On June 24, 1972, he married the former Diane L. Doran in Foster City, and together shared almost 51 years of marriage. Fran worked as a boiler operator for Mead Paper for over 30 years until his retirement.

He was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed going to camp, hunting, riding his four-wheeler and side-by-side, and mowing the lawn. Fran liked cooking, watching John Wayne movies, and listening to old country music. He loved his family, and especially adored his grandchildren. Fran enjoyed ice cream more than most, and would have it whenever he was allowed. He previously spearheaded the avenue of flags for the Foster City Cemetery project, and was also a member of the Escanaba Elks Lodge #354, U.P Whitetails – Dickinson County, and the Eastern Dickinson County Sportsmen’s Club. Fran had a generous heart and always wanted to take care of those around him.

Fran is survived by his wife, Diane Erickson of Bark River; children, Michael (Stephanie) Erickson of Warren, Mich., Amanda (Matt) Kivi of Foster City, and Adam (Krista) Erickson of Bark River; grandchildren, Colton, Mylayna, and Aubrielle Erickson, Charlie and Mason Kivi, and Evangeline, Pippa, Fiona Frances, Finnley, and Clover Erickson; siblings, Larry (Sandy) Erickson and Tom (Chris) Erickson, both of Bark River; aunt, Karen Orzel of Tennessee; sister-in-law, Sharon (Sig) Sundholm of Elgin, Ill.; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and an infant sister, Karen.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, May 30, from 3-5 p.m. at the Crawford Funeral Chapel, 1236 Old Hwy 2 & 41, Bark River. The funeral service will follow at 5 p.m. with Pastor Christine Bergquist officiating. At the conclusion of the service, a meal will take place at the Bark River Bible Church, 1105 12th Road, Bark River.

Inurnment will take place in the Foster City Cemetery.

A message of condolence can be shared with the family by visiting www.crawfordfuneralhomes.net.

The Crawford Funeral Homes are assisting with the arrangements.