

May 7, 1958-April 10, 2026
Christine Ann “Chris” (Kelley) Erickson was born May 7, 1958, to George and Eileen “Vonnie” Kelley. She grew up in Hartline and graduated from Coulee-Hartline High School before continuing her education at Kinman Business School, where she earned a business degree.
Chris began working for Grant County P.U.D. in the early 1980s, where she met the love of her life, Gary Erickson. Chris and Gary were married on February 26, 1983, and built a life together rooted in family and community. They celebrated the birth of their son, Charlie, in 1985, and later welcomed Kara into their home in 1997.
Chris and Gary moved home to Hartline in the late 80s to work alongside her father, George, becoming the fourth generation to farm Kelley family land. In time, they assumed operation of Kelley Brothers, continuing the family’s longstanding commitment to agriculture and stewardship of her family’s land.
After leaving the Grant County P.U.D. and moving home to the farm, Chris worked for Leffel, Otis, and Warwick for many years until her health prevented her from continuing. After leaving the accounting firm, Chris worked independently as a bookkeeper, assisting several clients with financial organization and recordkeeping. Her knowledge and reliability made her a valued resource to those she served.
In later years, Chris devoted herself to caring for her mother after her father’s passing, and to multiple civic roles and pursuits. Recently, Chris was very active in her role with Grant County Port District #4 (Coulee City) and the new library and clinic project in Coulee City. She also stepped in time and again to help train clerks and other secretary-treasurers whenever she was needed. Chris demonstrated a strong and lasting commitment to civic responsibility. Her dedication to strengthening and enriching our local communities will continue to have a lasting impact for years to come.
Chris was known for her strong personality and her ability to infuse energy into the spaces she occupied. She enjoyed social gatherings, impromptu adventures, and any time spent with friends and family. For more than 20 years, she faced significant health challenges, including leukemia and COPD, with determination and perseverance. She will be remembered for her lively spirit, her resilience, and her enduring connection to her community.
Chris was preceded in death by her parents, George and Eileen “Vonnie” Kelley and her daughter-in-law, Kami Erickson. Her husband, Gary Erickson, joined Chris as he passed away the Thursday following her death.
Chris is survived by her children, Charlie (Timi) Erickson and Kara Erickson; her step-daughters Natalie (Ronny) Ragan and Stormy Hall; her grandchildren, Grace, Noah, Hudson, and Hadleigh Erickson; her step-grandchildren Leslie, Whit, Caleb, Brooklyn, and Gracie, her brother Charles (Barbara) Kelley; as well as nieces, nephews, extended family members, and many, many, long-time friends.
A graveside service will be held at a later date at Hartline Cemetery, followed by a reception in the Hartline city park.
If anyone wishes to donate in her memory, Chris requested that funds be directed to the Hartline Cemetery at PO Box 162, Hartline, WA 99135.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared atwww.stratefuneral.com for the Erickson family. Strate Funeral Home, in Davenport, Washington, is caring for the family.
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