James Lester Erickson

Jim was born January 17, 1955 in Ottawa Illinois . His parents were Raymond and Dorothy Erickson (nee Bernard). The family with his older brother Robert moved to Phoenix AZ when Jim was 4 years old. He attended John F Long Primary School and later Trevor Brown HS. While in High School Jim was in ROTC. Upon graduation he enrolled at New Mexico Military Institute, Roswell. Jim then served in the Army with special skills in law enforcement. Jim rose to the rank of Major in the Army Reserve and served several years on active duty and overseas deployment in Germany and other assignments.

While Jim was in the service he met his ex-wife Sharon. He and Sharon had no children but occasionally kept in contact with one another. After leaving the Army Jim was employed with the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office as a Deputy and served as a Posse member. After leaving the Maricopa County Sheriffs office Jim was employed with the Glendale Police Department as an Accident Investigator until retiring approximately 15 years later as a Callback Officer.

Despite Jim’s own health issues he assisted in organising care for Dorothy his mother and his Aunt Marjorie, who both lived next door until their passing. Jim continued to live in his childhood home with his beloved dogs as Jim’s health declined. Last year Jim moved into Legacy House an assisted living facility until his death on November 13th, 2023.

As Jim’s Brother I’d like to thank the staff for the wonderful care they gave him. To his doctors and friends who visited and to a cousin Bill Penoyer who kept in touch. Jim was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church and I thank them for visits to his home and the center.

Finally many thanks to his friend in Christ, Ellie Harris and her children Jana; Jilian; Juliet and Jaclyn who celebrate holidays and life events as his extended family.

Jim’s surviving family members are a Brother Robert and wife Betsy, their children Victoria, Shelia and Nathan. Their spouses and 7 grandchildren who all reside in Brisbane Australia.

Jim and his brother Robert were able to have weekly conversations on FaceTime. As hard as it is, Jim understood that his brother Robert would not be able to attend his memorial services.

Job 19:25-27

New International Version

I know that my redeemer lives, and that in the end he will stand on the earth.[b]

And after my skin has been destroyed, yet in my flesh I will see God;

I myself will see him with my own eyes—I, and not another.

How my heart yearns within me!