Rodney Eugene Erickson, 71, a 19-year resident of Whidbey Island, died at St. Joseph Hospital in Bellingham on July 14, 2005.

Mr. Erickson was born in Detroit Lakes, Minn., on April 17, 1934, to Carl Enoch Erickson and Martha Magdalena (Torno) Erickson. He moved to Everett with his family at the age of nine. Rod attended Everett schools, graduating from Everett High School in 1952. He married Mary M. Kittleson on June 25, 1954 in Everett. Rod became assistant manager for the Newberry’s store in Everett for several years. He then went into route sales, working for Coca-Cola and Frito-Lay, introducing Fritos to Whidbey Island. He then went on to route sales for Gai’s Bakery. He and his family moved to Langley in 1986, and then to Coupeville in 1991.

Rod was a member of Family Bible Church. His hobbies included working with his hands in many ways, including building models (he had been building an ultra-lite); sailing; and sign painting.

Rod is survived by his beloved wife Mary, at home; two daughters, Pamela Bacon and husband Paul of Marysville and Kimberley Robertson and husband Rob of Arlington; son Jeffrey Erickson and wife Sandy of Anacortes; ten grandchildren, Andrew Bacon and wife Evelyn of Tacoma, Joel Bacon of Seattle, Jane Working and husband Andy of Marysville, Jessie Bacon and wife Jessica of San Diego, Mary Bacon of Everett, Anna, John and Paul Bacon of Marysville, Andrew Rubatino of Arlington and Jeffrey Erickson, Jr. of Anacortes; six great-grandchildren, Maribel, Andrew Jr. and Steven Bacon; Clara Bacon, Marni and Sophie Working; also, an “adopted” daughter Dixie Stewart and family of Everett. He was preceded in death by one granddaughter, Amy Nicole Rubatino and a brother Mervin Erickson. Rod was known as a loving, gentle soul and we know he is now in the arms of his Savior Jesus Christ.

A Memorial Service was held July 19 at Family Bible Church, Pastor Kenneth Weston and Pastor Ron Lawler co-officiating. Memorials may be made to Habitat for Humanity of Island County or to a charity of choice. Arrangements under direction of Burley Funeral Chapel.