Jack E. Erickson

Jack Edward Erickson, a beloved resident of Newtown, passed away peacefully on March 31, 2025, at the age of 96. Born on January 16, 1929, to Dorothy and Leonard Erickson, Jack lived a full and vibrant life, leaving behind a legacy of positivity and community.
Jack was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Susan Hooe. He is survived by his children: Eve Bowman, widow of Terry; Eric Erickson and wife Sue; Edward Erickson and wife Deborah; and Elaine Colangelo and husband Chris. He was also preceded in death by his daughter Ellen Bollenbacher. He was blessed with the grandchildren Sarah, Zach, Nora, Lindsay, Jenny, Brad, Jimmy, David, Kelly, Christopher, Michael, Colton, Jack, Emma, and Grant, followed by 10 great-grandchildren, who brought him immense joy. Jack also leaves behind his longtime girlfriend, Mary Ann Haer, with whom he shared a 26-year relationship filled with love and companionship. Together, they traveled to many places, created cherished memories, and spoke every day, their bond a testament to their deep connection.
Jack's life was marked by a series of remarkable achievements and passions. In his youth, he earned a degree in Engineering (SAE Fraternity) and became an Eagle Scout. His talent for photography emerged early, leading him to win 1st place in the National Press Photo Association in 1951, one of three National Photographic Awards he would earn. In 1952, he began his service as a Corporal in the U.S. Army, completing his duty in 1954. The following year, in 1955, he photographed Marilyn Monroe, and over the years, he captured images of notable figures like President Harry Truman and famous golfers.
After his military service, Jack began a 21-year career with Staley Manufacturing Company, where he served as the Eastern Regional Sales Manager, a role that honed his leadership and business acumen. His career in real estate later took shape, and by the 1980s, he served as President of the Bucks County Board of REALTORS Sales Division. He also dedicated 31 years to the Upper Makefield Township HARB board, retiring in the early 1990s. Meanwhile, his love for golf flourished. He joined Yardley Country Club in 1973 and won a golf tournament at The Greenbrier in West Virginia in 1974. Jack became a YCC Super Senior Champion and won several senior events in TDGA and GAP tournaments over the years. He achieved three Hole in Ones during his golfing career, a point of pride.
Jack's community involvement was extensive. He served as past President (twice) of the Washington Crossing Rotary Club and was a Paul Harris Fellow Rotarian with the Kiwanis Club of Washington Crossing, where he also served as the first president of the Washington Crossing/Yardley chapter, helping to establish its foundation. Additionally, Jack was the past president of the Pennsbury Scholarship Foundation for many years, supporting education in the community. For 40 years, he was a proud member of the Newtown Reliance Company (Horse Thieves), a historic organization that reflected his deep ties to local traditions. In 2010, he became Newtown's Ageing Athlete of the Year, and at age 90, he was honored with the same title again.
A fixture in Newtown, Jack could often be found bar hopping with his dozen close friends, a tight-knit group who were a major part of his life. His independence in his later years was a testament to the unwavering support of these dedicated friends, who helped him daily with tasks and ensured he could live life on his terms. They shared countless hours socializing, laughing, and making memories, whether at local bars or community events, forming a bond that was the heartbeat of Jack's social life. Jack was known for his unwavering positivity, always responding to "how are you doing" with a confident "near perfect." He was extremely positive and "wouldn't allow" negative things in his life, a trait that inspired everyone around him.
Jack will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and the Newtown community, like Jack would say he is "better now."
Relatives and friends are invited to share in Jack's Life Celebration on Sunday, April 27 from 2 to 4 PM at the Swartz Givnish Funeral Home, 323 Washington Ave, Newtown, PA. Interment with Military Honors will be at Washington Crossing National Cemetery on Monday, April 28, 2025 at 10 AM. Memorial contributions in Jack's name may be made to Newtown Rotary Club, P. O. 123, Penns Park, PA 18943 (Jack Erickson in by line) or Washington Crossing Yardley Kiwanis Club, Yardley, PA 19067.