Phillip Kay Erekson

Phil married Teri (Day) Erekson on March 4, 1979. They built a large, loving family together. He is survived by children Stacie, Beckie, Rob, Ryan, and Dalyn and their spouses, along with 19 grandchildren, and one great-grandchild. He is also survived by nine siblings and their spouses as well as many extended family members and friends. Phil was preceded in death by siblings Dan Erekson and Marjean Barnett, sons Bryce Erekson and Scott Gibson, and grandchildren Robert Handley and Alora Gibson.

Phil grew up in Payson, UT in the house his father built. It was during these early years that he developed into the man that we would all know him as best. By 10, he was driving tractors on a local farm and later held jobs like at the Huish Theater. Being a dedicated hard worker would be a defining characteristic of who Phil was. By high school, he had discovered his truest passion in life: cars. Ever since he owned his favorite car of all time, an electric green 1969 Dodge Charger, few things mattered more than cars. The pride he took in their care and maintenance was displayed best during this era of his life by him joining his local friends in driving (drag racing) their cars up and down Main St. late at night when no one else would be in their way. Phil graduated from Payson High School in 1969.

Throughout his life, Phil was a steadfast constant. Whether it was church callings, sport practices, or yardwork, he seemed to never run out of the ability to get things done. His tenacity and dedication showed in the craftmanship by which he made his living as a mechanic. There were very few things he couldn’t fix. Or break. This passion carried into his personal life as well when, early in his fatherhood, he built his own personal racecars in the family basement. He would go on to win local races and championships in Utah before setting his hobby aside to focus on his family. Outside of work at Walker Towing, he was an avid gardener, raising dozens of kinds of plants from the soil in Utah as well as Nevada. He was most notably known for the beautiful roses he tended to at each of his homes. His children spent countless hours outside working on cars or helping in the garden throughout their youth, spending quality time with a man who, at times, spoke more through actions than words. He was always willing to volunteer to help members of his local church or community and spent numerous weekend nights on scout camp trips. His grandchildren will remember his presence and love as he attended countless church events, sports games, recitals, concerts, and parades.

His legacy of hard work, patience, and focus on family will live on and continue to touch the lives of countless others. At every car show, NASCAR race, family gathering and more, he will live on through those he inspired, taught, and cared for. Pops, as he was known by his children, will be missed dearly.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, December 12, 2025 at the LDS church at 400 S. Water St., Henderson, NV 89012 beginning at 12:00 PM. Friends and family are invited to attend and celebrate Phil’s life. A graveside service will take place the following week on Friday, December 19, 2025 at Palm Boulder Highway Mortuary.

The family wishes to thank everyone for their support and compassion during this time.