In Memoriam: Wayne Erickson ’69, MSEd ’75

Wayne Erickson ’69, MSEd ’75 died Jan. 26, 2022, at age 74 in Boise, Idaho. Erickson was born in St. Helens, Ore., to Walter M. and Mary Louise (Blodgett) Erickson, and graduated from St. Helens High School in 1965. He began his 30-year teaching career for Baker Middle School in 1970, teaching social studies, history, and physical education. He enjoyed coaching middle school and high school basketball and was asked to be part of the Mike Doherty boys basketball teams of the 1991, 1992, and 1993 seasons.

Erickson was married 49 years to Sharla Rae DeMeyer. He was an active member of the Baker City, Ore. community as a part of various clubs and organizations. He became a member of the Baker City Church of the Nazarene in 1997 and served on the church board, took part in the Nazarene Church District Assemblies, was on various church committees, went to Work and Witness mission trips, and gave of himself by volunteering in many ways. He enjoyed people, making new friendships wherever he went. He was known for his laughter, his ability to have a song or quote for every situation, and his jokes.

Erickson is survived by his wife, Sharla; son Jason (and Robin) Erickson; daughter Staci Erickson; sister-in-law Alena Erickson; niece Karen Taylor; and cousins Barbara Freeman, Brian and Rick Love, and their families.