Nicholaus R. Erickson

Nicholaus Ray Erickson, 25, of Loves Park passed away Saturday, June 23, 2012. Born Aug. 20, 1986, in Rockford, the son of Brian Erickson and Marie Cox. Nicholaus graduated from Harlem High School in 2004. Nicholaus proudly served his country in the U.S. Navy aboard the U.S.S. Abraham Lincoln as an electrician and a firefighter from February 2005 through February 2009. He received the National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Humanitarian Service Medal, and the Sea Service Deployment Ribbon. Nicholaus received his associates degree at Rock Valley College after completing four years of active duty in the Navy. Nicholaus was an extremely protective, proud, and loving big brother to Garret Erickson and Brianna Cox. There was nothing he would not do for his family and friends. He lived his life as a generous humanitarian, devoted to ensuring the welfare of others. Nicholaus thoroughly enjoyed taking skins from his father and brother in golf. He was extremely intelligent and mature beyond his years. Nicholaus lived life to the fullest, like a candle that burns brighter than most, just not long enough. Survived by mother, Marie Cox; father, Brian Erickson (Sandi Hale); aunt, Julie Hicks; brother, Garret Erickson; sister, Brianna Cox; cousins, Drew and Hailey Hicks; extended family, Christina Roach, Tiffany Lozdoski and Joey Mejia; and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins. Predeceased by grandmother, Sue Erickson and grandfather, Raymond Erickson. Service at 11 a.m. Friday, June 29, at Sunset Funeral Home 8800 N. Alpine Road, Machesney Park, with Pastor Wendell Maynard officiating. Visitation from 5 to 8p.m. Thursday, June 28, at the funeral home. After services on Friday, family and friends will gather at Hawk's View Restaurant, 11189 Forest Hills Rd., Machesney Park. Online condolences at sunsetfhmemgardens.com