Wayne E. Erickson

It is with great sadness that the family of Wayne E. Erickson announces his passing on October 10, 2025.

A lifelong resident of Loves Park, Wayne was a member of one of the first graduating classes of Harlem High School. His passion was the natural world-he spent many years hunting ducks and fishing, always happiest with a retriever by his side. While he enjoyed time outdoors with friends, his bond with his dogs was especially meaningful.

In his earlier years, Wayne was a member of the Roscoe Sportsman's Club and participated in conservation efforts, including hatching pheasant chicks at home for release into the wild. Long before water quality became a public concern, Wayne sought out a natural well at the Mississippi River, making countless trips over the years to collect water for drinking and cooking.

Wayne was a long-time member of the now-closed Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd, where he married his wife, Sonia Logeson. He was active in the church community, participating in the catechism program and other volunteer activities. Wayne worked at Electrol Specialties in South Beloit for over 30 years, retiring in 2001.

He led an active life-traveling to his trailer by the Mississippi River or spending time with family and friends. After a debilitating stroke in January 2003, he lost the ability to speak or write yet found his own way to communicate. His often-repeated phrase, "God damn whatsisthis," became a unique signature, embraced by loved ones and scoffed at by strangers, reflecting the irreverent spirit of the Erickson family.

Wayne and Sonia celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary on June 6, 2025, surrounded by close family at his residence at Fair Oaks in South Beloit.

He is survived by his wife, Sonia; daughters, Karen Erickson (spouse, Kelly Worden) and Beth Erickson; and grandchildren, Madeleine Worden, Nicolai Yun, and Sasha Yun.

Wayne's beloved brother, James Erickson, passed just five days earlier, on October 5, 2025. The family is deeply saddened by this double loss. Wayne loved his brother dearly, and his passing may have been the final heartache he could not bear.

In lieu of a formal service, the family will scatter Wayne's ashes at the Mississippi River and place a monument in his memory at the Scandinavian Cemetery in Rockford. Condolences to Sonia Erickson are welcomed in person at Fair Oaks or by phone.