Richard Leon Erickson

Richard Leon Erickson died on August 20, 2023. His bright light and spirit passed on at the age of 64. Richard was born January 19, 1959, in Baker, Oregon to Donis Leon Erickson and Janet Waldron Erickson. He is the sibling to Cindy (Raymond) Rounds, Randy Erickson, John Eric (Debbie) Erickson, Lance Charles Erickson (deceased), Sonya Erickson, Anthony (Trisha) Erickson, Russell (Antoinette) Erickson, and Katrina Erickson. The family moved to Ogden, Utah where Richard graduated from Ogden High School in 1977. He was a lifeguard at the Ogden High swimming pool, which gave him money and time to date, fix cars, and ski until he left to serve in the Aspen/Denver, Colorado Mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in 1979.

Richard loved life, good rock and roll, rice crispy treats, original Coca-Cola (with sugar), and creating wonderful pieces of art. His goal was to be an architect or an artist and illustrator. Throughout Richard's secondary school years, he was fortunate to have excellent art teachers who mentored and encouraged him to expand his gifts. He began his undergraduate studies at Weber State College. While there, he met his future wife, Diane Koster, under the Weber State bell tower, where she purchased his used schoolbook and stole his heart.

They were sealed together for time and all eternity in the Salt Lake Temple in 1982. Richard continued to pursue his interest in the study of fine arts while their family grew. He relished learning about the "Old Masters" of the art world, studied under Arnold Friberg, and was fascinated by variations in the trends of modern artists. He graduated from the University of Utah with a Bachelor of Fine Arts.

Richard had been a loyal Utah Utes supporter and was an esteemed guest lecturer for the design and illustration classes taught at local universities where he inspired many future artists. Richard's integrity, kind nature, and patience brought him into the service of teaching and executive positions within his church. He worked for Deseret Book for many years, eventually becoming the Senior Art Director where he led a dedicated team of designers and illustrators. His keen eye and committed leadership made a remarkable contribution to the company. Richard's work includes countless best sellers, many of which have won national awards and reached markets worldwide.

Richard was always genuine, quick to smile, and ready to share full-hearted laughter. He consistently showed his devotion to family. His love for the beauty of God's masterful palette and creations was present in the efforts he and Diane made to beautify their home in Bountiful, Utah. We will miss his stories of adventure with his children, fly-fishing on a pristine river, and the joy of interacting with his grandchildren.

Please see obituary for Diane Koster Erickson for more information about their life together and for the location and time of services.

Donations can be made to the Richard and Diane Erickson Memorial account at America First Credit Union, account # 9127705. Donations may also be sent by Venmo to @Melisssa-Erickson-29874