James "Jim" Erickson

James 'Jim' Erickson

RAPID CIT - James "Jim" Erickson, 73, died Thursday, May 17, 2012.

James "Jim" Erickson was born Oct. 27, 1938, to Leslie Erickson & Edith (Vance) Erickson in Pierre, SD. He graduated from Pierre HS in 1956, served in the U.S. Navy in Newfoundland, and then attended SD School of Mines & Technology. He worked for the SD Dept. of Transportation from 1962 to 1992. Jim received several major awards. After the flood in 1972 he received an award from SD's governor for saving a life. In 1992 he received another award for saving a life at a highway construction accident; the Boys Club honored him with "Builder of Boys" award in 1983. In 1993 the SD Hwy Dept. gave him an award for the teepee design still used for the Interstate rest areas.

Jim had a lifetime love of art. It began when, in boredom, he picked up a small rock and began whittling on it with his pen knife. He graduated to larger pieces of stone & eventually became an accomplished, internationally acclaimed sculptor. He also painted in oils until eventually he had to give up both sculpting and oils because of his failing lungs. Then he picked up paint brushes and created watercolor art.

He was proud of the oriental garden friend Ron Beshara created in the back yard. He had to add his own talents by building pergolas and curved bridges, and painting Koi fish on stone. He saw and appreciated the beauty of nature. Jim had the spirit of a Peter Pan. He loved holidays and always worked to make them special to everyone around him. His patriotism inspired him to fly the flag on all the appropriate holidays.

He was an honest, loving and caring person who frequently put the needs of others ahead of his own. His indomitable spirit and love of life kept him going long after the physicians gave up. Jim was a loving father and gave freely of his time to Jaycees, church, and children's organizations. He also mentored aspiring new artists. Jim left us all on May 17. The memory and love of Jim will last for a long time with the family he left behind as well as the many people whose lives he affected with his kindness and generosity.

Jim is survived by his wife, Carole Conrad, daughters, Krista Erickson, Denver, and Julie Erickson, Minneapolis, sons Dean and Daryl Conrad, Black Hawk, SD, three grandchildren, and brother, Lynn Erickson, Pierre.

A Celebration of Life memorial service will be at 11 a.m. Friday, June 1, at Edstrom and Rooks Funeral Service, Serenity Springs Chapel of Tranquility, with Pastor Susan MacMillan Kains officiating and reception following. A short service will be held 2 p.m. at the Black Hills National Cemetery near Sturgis with military honors.

Friends may sign his online guest register at www.serenityspringsfuneralchapel.com.