Gary Alvin Erickson

August 5, 1946 – April 16, 2026

Gary Alvin Erickson, age 79, passed away April 16, 2026 in Moses Lake, Washington. Gary was born August 5, 1946, to Merle and Virginia Erickson.

Gary grew up just outside Kittitas, where he was very active in FFA and showed sheep in his youth. He learned to play piano and could play anything you threw at him by ear. Gary graduated from Kittitas High School in 1964.

Following graduation, he served in the United States Navy for six years. In order to attend electrician school, Gary committed to an additional two years of service. During his time in the Navy, he served one year in Vietnam aboard a destroyer.

Gary met his first wife, Sonja, while stationed in San Diego. Together they had two children, Natalie and Stormy.

Gary later married Christine Erickson on February 26, 1983. He was a devoted husband and steady presence throughout the many chapters of life they shared. After the Navy, Gary began his career as a lineman. He and Chris met while working for Grant County PUD. Gary volunteered as an EMT for the Royal City Fire Department.

In the late 1980s, Gary and Chris moved to Hartline to work on Chris’ family farm. Together, they took over operation of Kelley Brothers from George Kelley, and spent the remainder of their years in Hartline committed to the success of the farm and the life they built there.

Gary served several years with the Hartline Fire Department as an EMT and firefighter, and also on the board as a Grant County Fire District 6 Commissioner.

Gary had a naturally happy demeanor and was known for being easygoing, mild-mannered, and even-tempered. He was a patient and hardworking man whose life was defined by consistency, kindness, and quiet dedication. Gary was often the person family and friends turned to when something needed to be fixed, and he took quiet satisfaction in being helpful wherever he was needed.

Gary is survived by his children, Natalie (Ronny) Ragan, Stormy Hall, Charlie (Timi) Erickson, and Kara Erickson; his sister LeeAnn (Steve Wilson) Erickson, and brother Dale (Cheril) Erickson; grandchildren Grace, Noah, Hudson, and Hadleigh Erickson, Connor and Heath Hall, and Leslie, Whit, Caleb, Brooklyn, and Gracie; as well as many extended family members and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Merle and Virginia Erickson, and his wife, Christine.

Those wishing to donate in Gary’s memory may direct funds to the Hartline Firefighter’s Association at PO Box 33, Hartline, WA 99135.

A service for Gary and Christine will be held in June, a date will be announced.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.strate-funeral.com for the Erickson family. STRATE FUNERAL HOME, Davenport, WA is caring for the family.