John Erickson

John James Erickson of Grantsburg died on Sunday, April 13,2014 at his home in the Barrens. He was 66 years old.   John entered into this life on August 2, 1947 in St. Croix Falls, Wisconsin.  He was born the third son of Carl and Doris Erickson who farmed in rural Shafer, Minnesota.  A sister was born to complete the family, who stayed on the farm until John was a freshman in High School.  The family then moved into the town of Taylors Falls, where John graduated on June 6, 1965.   Soon after graduation, John joined the United States Navy and served aboard the USS Beale DD 471, doing a tour to Vietnam in August 1966. Even when he was in the Service, his letters to home spoke of missing deer hunting and what guns or reloading kits he wanted to buy when he got back.   Hunting became one of John's all time favorite passions in his life.  Not only did he enjoy the actual hunt, but loved having hunting Buddies around him as he really liked a good time, laughing, playing cards, talking about the Packers and telling stories, and there were many.   John was able to have a trip of lifetime, going on a big hunt in Alaska. He successfully returned after shooting a moose, a trophy caribou and a grizzly bear along with a hair raising story to tell.   John was self employed as a carpenter, building many beautiful homes during his working years. John built his home in the Barrens, south of Grantsburg where he really enjoyed the wildlife, not only out his picture window but also from the many deer stands he built on his property.   John liked to grow a vegetable garden, enjoying his acres and canning the fruits of his labors. His shelves were full of fruit jars by the end of the summer and he was proud to share with everyone.   Family and Friends were very important to John.  He had a big heart to go with his big personality and a wonderful sense of humor.  He will be missed greatly by those who loved him.  He touched the lives of so many friends and family with his hearty laugh and quick smile.  We will always remember " Big John ". He is preceded in death by his Grandparents, His Father Carl Erickson, Brother Wally Erickson, Nephew Ricky Erickson and Brother-in-Law Gene McKenzie.   He is survived by his Mother Doris Erickson of Grantsburg, Brother Bill [ Chris ] Erickson of Mora, Minnesota, Sister Dona McKenzie of Grantsburg, Very Special Friend Becky Newlin, many Nephews , Nieces and wonderful friends and his little dog, Walter.   A Celebration of John's Life will be held on Saturday, April 19th, 2014 at 2:00 PM at the home of Tim and Vickie Erickson 21141 Jimmy Carter Road Grantsburg, WI. Arrangements were entrusted to Swedberg-Taylor Family Funeral Home, Grantsburg Chapel. Online condolences can be made at www.swedberg-taylor.com