Kenneth Erickson

Many characteristics make up the lives of many great people, but those derived from the heart are the qualities that leave a forever imprint on the hearts of others, and Ken Erickson was such a man. Grounded in faith, and driven by his love of family, he lived life completely and fully. A dedicated and admired educator who touched the lives of many, his legacy continues through his leadership, generosity to community, and valor as a decorated Veteran. He added much to the lives of those who knew and loved him, and will be dearly missed.

The stock market crash of 1929 initiated the onset of the Great Depression, and by 1931, most Americans faced difficult days. With a jobless rate of nearly four million, it was an endless struggle to keep food on the table and maintain a place to call home. Even so, American’s remained optimistic and looked towards the future with unrelenting hope. Our nation was in awe as New York City opened the Empire State Building, and celebrated as the Star-Spangled banner was adopted as the U.S. national anthem. In the diverse ethic enclaves of Brooklyn, New York, breadlines went on for blocks, and shanty towns infamously known as Hoovervilles filled riverfront spaces. It was during these most trying times in American history when Henry and Isabel Erickson, a young couple from Brooklyn, anticipated the arrival of their first child. With the trust of brighter tomorrows, they were blessed on March 22, 1931 with the birth of their son, Kenneth Henry Erickson.

The oldest of three children, Ken was later joined by two younger sisters, Lois and Carol. He led a childhood typical for the times where education was stressed throughout his youth. After graduating from Fort Hamilton High School, he accompanied a friend to Hope College in Holland, Michigan, a place far removed from the streets of Brooklyn. With Ken's thirst for education, he fared quite well in his studies at Hope where he majored in English and Psychology.

Soon after his college graduation, Ken entered the U.S. Army. He served during the Korean War, and valiantly fought for his country's honor. Upon his honorable discharge, Ken was awarded the Bronze Medal Star of Valor for which he humbly accepted with unpretentious pride. After returning home to Holland at the war's end, the only thing on Ken's mind was furthering his education, but his Lord had much more in store for him.

Ken met a young woman from Holland who would come to walk by his side as his beloved wife for years to come. Betty Borr was a beautiful brunette with a smile that could light up a room. Her inner beauty and grace, however, was the attraction that found Ken falling head-over-heels in love with her. In 1954 they began dating, and on New Year's Eve, 1955, they were engaged. Western Theological Seminary set the stage for their vows of marriage before family and friends on June 23, 1956.

Making their home in Livonia, Michigan, Ken and Betty soon started a family of their own. They raised three sons, Jeff, Brent, and Brad who filled their lives with joy. A close and very active family, they did much together and enjoyed many memorable times, especially camping. Summers were spent traveling with their pop-up camper, many times with their relatives, the Northuis family, to destinations such as Yellowstone National Park, the state of Colorado, Nova Scotia on Canada's Atlantic coast, and Cape Hatteras on the National Seashore. Winter months were spent playing hockey on their backyard rink where their home was always a welcome place for neighborhood friends. Ken was an attentive and actively involved father in his sons’ many activities as youngsters and, later, very much enjoyed following his grandchildren’s activities, as well.

Throughout these years, Ken went on to earn his Master's Degree in Education Administration from the University of Michigan and soon began his 37 year career with the Redford Union School District. During that time, he earned his PhD from the University of Michigan, and spent the final 12 years of his career as the Superintendent at Redford Union. He was involved with many service organizations in the greater Detroit area, including serving as President of the Redford Township Chamber of Commerce. Ken and Betty were also very involved at their church, Ward Presbyterian.

In addition to family activities, Ken had many interests. Attending the Metropolitan Opera in New York while growing up nurtured his love for opera throughout his life. He was also an avid photographer and enjoyed reading, particularly about World War II. Ken and Betty held season tickets for U of M football games for over 30 years and followed the team to several bowl games. After making Livonia their home for 48 years, Ken and Betty eventually moved to Holland in 2004 following his retirement to be near family. After their move, they enjoyed Hope College athletics as well. Among his many qualities, Ken was also an introspective man of quiet reflection. He enjoyed taking his small sailboat to local lakes as well as Traverse Bay and Lake Macatawa.

In retirement, Ken and Betty took the opportunity to travel. They wintered in Florida, and made several trips abroad. To celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary, they treated their entire family to a Disney World vacation. It was truly a wonderful occasion to enjoy the “magic” of family in the Disney setting which will remain etched in their memories for years to come.

Ken often said their move back to Holland was “providential” due to the love and support provided by family when unexpected health problems arose. In 2008, Ken's partner in life and love sadly passed away from cancer which was indeed a trying time for their entire family. With his faith and family as a constant source of strength, Ken, too was later diagnosed with cancer. At the age of 80, Kenneth Henry Erickson, of Holland, passed away Friday, February 17, 2012 at Holland Hospital following a courageous battle with cancer.

The life of Ken Erickson was one of character and integrity. He enjoyed much, lived fully, and was an ever present source of guidance to those who were fortunate to have known and loved him.

Ken is survived by his children; Jeffrey (Rosemary) Erickson of Holland, Brent (Marcia) Erickson of Williamston, and Bradley (Fiona) Erickson of Clarkston; eight grandchildren, Bryan, Michael, Jason, Nicole, Kelsey, Colin, Aidan, and Regan; sisters, Lois (David) Brenner of Oneonta, NY and Carol MacKenzie (Richard Lane) of Williamsburg, VA; in-laws, Joyce Martinus of Muskegon, Roger (Ruth) Borr of Holland, and Marsha (Paul) Northuis of Holland. He was preceded in death by his wife of 52 years, Betty.

Funeral services for Ken will be held Monday, February 20, 2012, 10:30 AM at Grace Episcopal Church, 555 Michigan Avenue with the Rev. Jennifer Adams officiating. Burial will be in Pilgrim Home Cemetery. Visitation with his family will take place from 6-9 PM Sunday at the Dykstra Funeral Homes-Northwood Chapel, 295 Douglas Avenue. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society or Grace Episcopal Church. Please visit Ken's personal memory page at www.dykstrafuneralhome.com to sign the on-line registry or to leave a memory.