Dave Erlandson

Dave Erlandson of Douglas passed away peacefully on January 13th at his beloved home. He was 92 years old.

Dave was born on March 3, 1928 to Arnold and Helen Erlandson in Miller Indiana; he was the oldest of 5 children. As a young lad, Dave hunted and trapped the sloughs and marshes in and around Miller. He also worked with his dad and brothers in the family dairy business. Once he was old enough to drive, Dave and his friends spent a lot of time in the dunes and on Miller beach, ripping around with their homemade dune buggies.

As a young man Dave served in the Korean conflict as a floating bridge builder. Upon his honorable discharge, Dave came back to Miller and worked at Sabinske Brothers Fishery. Eventually he spent time in Colorado going to school on the GI bill and working on the ski slopes of Aspen.

When Dave was in his late 20's he met a young gal named Sallie Klug. The two hit it off and were married a short time later. Early in their relationship they came to Saugatuck and purchased The White House (now Good Goods). They rented rooms and set down roots in the area. After a short time, they moved to Douglas to raise their family.

In the mid to late 70's Dave went into business for himself and began a long and fruitful career in concrete; a trade that he passed down to his sons. He was known for his quality workmanship and fair dealings. Look around anywhere in Saugatuck or Douglas and you will likely find an “Erlandson Concrete” stamp. In his trade he was a true artist.

Upon retirement, Dave pursued his dream of owning a sailboat. He purchased a 26' wooden sloop---Antares, and made several trips across Lake Michigan frequenting Washington, Beaver and North Manitou Islands. He even sailed under the Mackinaw Bridge. His base for sailing and most of his summer fun was his little cottage in Elberta MI. He found a second home there and made many friends, especially his neighbor Mary Baughman. Dave also enjoyed reading, and taking drives in his old Pontiac with his faithful sidekick Scruffy.

Dave will be missed by all that knew him. He was first and foremost a family man. Dave was a true gentleman with a kind, friendly and inquisitive nature. He had a special place in his heart for his grandkids: Nora Rose, Kay-Lien and Luke David.

Dave is survived by his children Douglas Erlandson, Mark Erlandson, Molly Erlandson and Tim (Brandy) Erlandson. Also, he is survived by a brother Dick (Barbara) Erlandson of Minneapolis, Minnesota. Dave's ashes will be laid to rest with a small graveside service this spring, in Riverside Cemetery in Saugatuck.

Rather than donations, the family would like anyone who can, to support a local business. Order some takeout and perhaps hoist a glass to a life well lived.