Reed R. Erickson "Swede"

It is with deep sadness but many warm and light-hearted memories that we announce the passing of our positive, easy-going, humorous, loving and supportive dad Reed (Swede) Erickson. In true gentlemanly fashion, he endured his recent health challenges without complaint and continually demonstrated his kind disposition and gratitude right up to the end. Dad came from humble beginnings, the second of eight children born to Henry and Nettie Erickson. He spent his youth playing along the tracks in Murray and running the Lug It by Night Coal Company with his brothers. His life was not always easy and was never extravagant; his pleasures were simple and unpretentious. One of Reed's proudest achievements was that of serving his country. From 1942 through 1944 he was assigned to the Southwest Pacific Arena as a Lieutenant in the United States Merchant Marines and was honorably discharged from the service in November 1945. He loved his country and remained truly honored by the title World War II Veteran. Swede was a dedicated employee of Kennecott Copper for 34 years where he worked as a shovel runner, union head, and truck haulage foreman until his retirement. He then went to work at Saveway Trailer. Many cherished and lasting friendships were made at both places. Reed married his beautiful sweetheart Louise Rupp on October 2, 1945. Together they worked tirelessly and lovingly to provide for their family. Dad lost a bit of his oomph when Mom passed away three years ago, as he missed her immensely. He is survived by his two daughters Charlyn (Gene) Panek and Sandy (Wilt) Rudert, grandchildren, great and great-great grandchildren, his two brothers Clint and Hal Erickson, and his sister Lois Stevens. Preceded in death by his wife, parents, brothers Brent, Rod, and Wendell, sister Gwen Williams, and great granddaughter Samantha. To Dad's neighbors, family, friends, and Quality Hospice team, we want to thank everyone of you for helping him, visiting him, communicating with him, and caring for him. To Ailine Tokomaata, Talita Naulu and their families who provided 24-hour care to Reed for the last nine months: you are the kindest, most selfless and giving people we have ever known. There are no adequate words to express our gratitude for your devotion to our dad. You allowed him to stay in his own home and to die with dignity two incredible gifts! Moreover, thank you for loving him. Although we are truly grateful to have had him with us until the age of 93, it is hard to picture our lives without him. We will always cherish being part of his family, as he was so loving and so loved. We have been extremely lucky and proud to call him our Dad. Services to honor and celebrate Reed's life will be held Wednesday May 24th at 11:00 a.m. at McDougal Funeral Home, 4330 South Redwood Road. Friends may call at the mortuary on Tuesday May 23rd from 6:00 8:00 p.m., or prior to services on Wednesday morning from 10:00 10:45 a.m. Internment will be at Larkin Sunset Gardens Cemetery. To honor Reed, our family suggests in lieu of flowers that donations be made to Utah Honor Flight, PO Box 42, Richfield, UT 84701, or any other Veterans charity. Place of Birth:Murray, UtahPlace of Death:Taylorsville, Utah