Gerald "Gerry" M. Erickson

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Gerald “Gerry” Erickson, 70, of West Fargo, ND, passed away Monday, May 20, 2024, in Sanford West Campus, Fargo, ND.   

Gerald Michael Erickson was born January 20, 1954, the son of Wallace and Jewell (Bjorndahl) Erickson in Fargo, ND.  He was raised in the country near Harwood, ND, where he attended grade school before continuing his education in West Fargo, ND, graduating from West Fargo High School in 1972.   Following his high school graduation, Gerry attended Bismarck Junior College where he played football.  He then furthered his studies at North Dakota State University in Fargo, ND, where he received his Bachelor of Science degree in Animal Science.  

In 1975, Gerry was united in marriage to Connie Hoehn in Fargo, ND.  They made their home in Fargo and were blessed with two children, Shannon and Joseph.    Gerry embarked on his career starting on a Dairy Farm before becoming a Herdsman at the NDSU Dairy Farm 1979.  His dedication and passion for Animal Science led him to become a coach for the Judging Team and Instructor in the NDSU Animal Science Department. In 1992, he assumed the role as Animal Science Farm Operations Manager until his retirement from NDSU in December of 2018.   On July 23, 2000, Gerry was united in marriage to Michelle Morris in Fargo.  They established their home in Fargo before later moving to West Fargo.  

A longtime and devoted member of Triumph Lutheran Brethren Church, Gerry contributed significantly through various roles in the congregation.  During his tenure at NDSU, he participated in several National and Professional organizations and university committees while earning several awards.  

Gerry enjoyed many outdoor activities: fishing, hunting, camping, snow skiing and just being outside. He had a great talent for cooking and grilling. You would often find him at the kitchen island researching and planning menus for family and friends. He loved experiencing new cuisines as well as frequenting his favorite places. Gerry loved sports and being active. Football, hockey, soccer and golf just to name a few. His passion for sports transferred to his children and grandchildren. He made it a priority to see their games, whether in person or virtually. 

His best qualities were his strong faith and loving his family and friends. Gerry was the best son, husband, dad, brother, grandpa and friend. He had a gift of making people feel welcome with his keen sense of humor and quick wit. Whether it be family, friends, students, co-workers, neighbors and all he met, he impacted their life in a positive way.

He is survived by his wife, Michelle; his blended family of children, Shannon, (Jay) Ysteboe, Joe Erickson, Amber Lealos, and Kali (Michael) O’Malley; six beautiful grandchildren, Joey, Charlie, Ainzley, Quincy, Conor and Kirra; siblings, David (Joanne) Erickson, Linda Olson, Jeff (Pam) Erickson and Kristine (David) Toay; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents.  

A Visitation for Gerry will be Tuesday, May 28, 2024, from 5 PM until 7 PM, with a Prayer Service at 6:30 PM, in Triumph Lutheran Brethren Church, Moorhead, MN.  His visitation will continue Wednesday, May 29, 2024, beginning at 10 AM, followed by his Funeral Service at 11 AM, in Triumph Lutheran Brethren Church.  

The burial will take place in Oak Mound Cemetery, rural Kragnes, MN.