Draper, UT—Kenneth Reed Erickson, age 90 (in 30 days anyway!), passed away at home on September 8, 2021, surrounded by family. Born October 9, 1931, in Murray, Utah to Lester Kenneth Erickson and Winona Stokes, the oldest of their 11 children. At age 19, he joined the Army and served in Germany during the Korean conflict as a morse code operator. Upon returning, he married his lifelong sweetheart and eternal companion, Barbara Allyce Horman, on January 28, 1954, in the Salt Lake Temple. Together, Ken and Barbie raised five children.
One of Ken’s greatest passions was volleyball, which began during his service in Germany. His pursuit of the sport included playing, coaching and officiating. He also served for many years as chairman of the equipment committee for USA Volleyball, including as court director in the 1984 Summer Olympic Games in Los Angeles. In 2001, he received the highest honor given by USA volleyball, the “Frier” Award, for longtime significant service to the sport of volleyball. Ken especially enjoyed teaching, coaching, and encouraging hundreds, if not thousands, in the sport.
After graduating from the University of Utah in Accounting, Ken spent his career in commercial construction. He was the superintendent for significant projects such as Cottonwood Mall, Valley Fair Mall and the WordPerfect Complex in Orem, Utah.
Ken spent much of his retirement caring for Barbara as she battled health issues, including multiple bouts with cancer. He also dedicated significant time volunteering for various organizations and events, utilizing his many skills to benefit his family, the community, young athletes, and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. He particularly enjoyed his time working in the Salt Lake Temple. He loved spending time in his yard, especially growing and sharing his tomatoes. Ken and Barbara had fun traveling to various destinations around the world with family and friends.
He will be greatly missed by his children, Quinette (Bob-deceased) Dunn, Reed (Gordon Herzog), Gordon (Elaine), Trent (Kelli) and Greg (Jen); 19 grandchildren; 43 great grandchildren with 2 more on the way; and siblings Mary Taylor, Lynne Riding, Margie Thorley, Emy Hockenbury and Brent Erickson.
Preceded in death by his wife, Barbara, parents, son-in-law, Bob Dunn, and brothers Keith, Henry, Marv, and Glen. He was followed in death a few hours later by his sister, Nonie.
Public viewings will be held on Thursday, September 16th from 6 to 8 pm at Wasatch Lawn Memorial, 3401 South Highland Drive, Salt Lake City, Utah and Friday, September 17th from 10:30 to 11:30 am at the Draper 9th Ward building, 12353 S. 600 E., Draper, Utah. Funeral services will follow at 12:00 pm. Interment at Wasatch Lawn.
