Kenneth "Kenny" Erickson

Longtime Wasilla resident Kenneth "Kenny" Emroy Erickson, 78, died Feb. 10, 2010, at his residence.

A memorial service was Tuesday at Valley Funeral Home, 151 E. Herning Ave., in Wasilla. Hospice Chaplin Stuart Mitchell officiated. There was a potluck dinner and time of fellowship after the memorial service at the VFW Post 9365, 301 W. Lake View Ave., Wasilla.

Mr. Erickson was born Aug. 5, 1931, to Eric and Mabel (Berg) Erickson in McIntosh, Minn. Kenny came to Alaska in 1948 at the age of 17.

He lived in Anchorage for a year before moving to the Mat-Su area, where he trapped and hunted. He started as a commercial fisherman in the late 1950s and continued this lifelong passion even as recently as last summer.

An avid golfer, Kenny could be found on the golf course, regardless of the weather conditions. Many friends will remember him best playing horseshoes at Greenacres. Most of all, Kenny loved spending time with family, friends and his neighborhood community.

In 1963, Kenneth was married to Patricia Noonan and they had three children: Pam Erickson-Girouard, Olie Erickson and Kirby Kevin Erickson, all of California.

In 1974, Kenny and Pat divorced. Kenny later enjoyed a wonderful friendship for many years with Harriet Joinette until her death.

Kenny is survived by his three children, Harriet's daughter, Nancy Smith and her children, Cooper and Sydney; a sister, Alice Mae Dyer of Minnesota: numerous nieces and nephews and grand-nieces and -nephews.

He was preceded in death by his siblings, Waldo, Gordon, Margaret and Alan; and longtime friend Harriet Joinette.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the American Cancer Society.

Arrangements were with Valley Funeral Home and Crematory in Wasilla.