Mildred Elaine Erickson, 96, passed away on Sunday, Jan. 5, 2025, in Montesano, Washington.
Mildred was born at home in Aberdeen, Washington on May 30, 1928, to parents Bert A. and Gladys B. (Luke) Nelson, joining her sister, Marjorie. She grew up in South Aberdeen, attending Stevens Elementary. She went on to Miller Junior High and graduated from Weatherwax High School in 1946. She married Warren A. Erickson on July 28, 1948, at Bethel Temple in Hoquiam. The couple moved to Central Park where they began raising their two children, Rebecca and Rodney. In 1961, the family moved to a 45-acre farm in the Wynooche Valley in Montesano. On Nov. 18, 2007, Warren passed away after 59 years of marriage. Mildred continued living on her beloved farm until her death.
Her working career began at Goldberg Furniture right after graduation. In 1954, she began working part-time for the Employment Security Department, a short time at the G.H. County Health Department, and in 1967 began her 25-year career as a Vehicle Licensing Agent in the G.H. County Auditor’s Office, retiring in 1992. She was a long time member of the Montesano Assembly of God. She and Warren enjoyed taking tours to Hawaii and many destinations in the United States, as well as Europe, the Holy Land, Australia, and New Zealand. Her last adventure was Alaska in 2008. She had horses for 70 years and raised cattle for 60 years, giving each cow and calf a name. She enjoyed her garden, maintaining the farm, reading, puzzles, and attending her grandson’s sporting events. Using her “handyman” skills, she enjoyed helping her children and grandchildren with home projects of many types.
Mildred was preceded in death by her husband, Warren; her parents, and her sister, Marjorie. She is survived by her daughter, Rebecca (Michael) Crites; her son, Rodney (Cecilia) Erickson; four grandchildren: Wendy Schroeder, Brady Crites, Paule (Lindsey) Erickson, and Ruth (Joseph) Haugo; and eight great-grandchildren: Kaeden Crites, Daylon Schroeder, Hayden and Hadley Erickson, and Ingrid, Agnes, Bonnie, and Helen Haugo.
She will be remembered for her self discipline, attention to detail, generosity, independence, work ethic, and quiet yet strong faith in her Lord and Savior. A fervent prayer warrior, she cared deeply about the well being and happiness of her family and friends. She is greatly missed.
A private urn committal ceremony will take place at Fern Hill Cemetery. If you wish to leave a memory or note of condolence for the family, please visit www.fernhillfuneral.com. Arrangements have been entrusted to Twibell’s Fern Hill Funeral Home in Aberdeen, Washington.