ERICKSON, Robert

Col USAF Ret Robert E. Erickson, of Litchfield Park, AZ passed away in Mesa, Arizona on March 2, 2010. Bob was born in Salt Lake City, Utah on Jan. 21, 1921, to Robert T. and Marie Erickson. He graduated from South H.S. and attended BYU and the University of Utah where he played football and basketball. Bob enlisted in the U.S.A.A.C. graduated in class 43D. He was sent to England to fly P-38's & P-51's. He had 4½ confirmed and 12 probable enemy aircraft. He survived three shoot downs. Bob made a career in the U.S.A.F. for almost 34 years thru WWII, Korea and Vietnam. Flying most of the fighters of his time with almost 9000 hours of flying time. Bob retired in 1975 with the rank of Col. Bob was preceded in death by his parents, brother, William, sister, Barbara and by his wife and high school sweetheart, Barbara L. (Pass) Erickson. Bob was a shining example of perseverance and devotion to his family, friends and country. Everyone who met and loved Bob will carry with them memories of his warm smile, kind heart and generous spirit. He is survived by his spouse, Rebecca Page Erickson, son, Michael (Carolyn Sue), daughters, Judi Beck (Dennis), Susan Barrett and son, Robert (Debbie); grandchildren, Glenn (Rhonda), James (Nicolette) and Michael (Noelle) Herderick, Tim (Amy) and Tom (Natalie) Beck, Karen Barrett, Christy and Amanda Erickson; and 10 great-grandchildren. Services will be held at the LDS Sun City Ward, 13014 N. 108th Ave (one block South of Grand Ave) Monday, March 8, with viewing from 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m., followed by services at 11:00. Graveside services will be 2:00 p.m. at Sunland Memorial Park, 15826 Del Webb Blvd, Sun City. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Hospice of the Valley, 6063 E. Arbor Ave, unit C, Mesa, AZ. 85206.