Joel Andrew Erickson, age 64, of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, passed away on October 10, 2021.
He was born on April 9, 1957 in Chicago, Illinois and grew up on his parent's farm in Woodstock. He was the son of Ralph and Jacqueline (Pankau) Erickson.
Joel led a very adventurous life as an Alaskan Glacier Pilot, Air Traffic Controller, and Flight Inspection Pilot. He traveled around the globe to all the Continents including remote areas in the Pacific Rim and Antarctica while working for the FAA for almost 35 years. Joel was well-known for his wit and humor, and he told captivating stories of his travels. He enjoyed outdoor activities and building things with "his" hands.
Joel was a beloved father, brother, nephew, cousin, friend and he will be greatly missed by all.
Joel is survived by two children, Amy Elizabeth Erickson of Seattle, Washington, and Joel Anders Erickson of Oklahoma City. He is also survived by a brother; Ralph Erickson, and a sister Nancy Erickson (Lindsay).
He was preceded in death by his parents Ralph and Jacqueline (Pankau) Erickson.
A memorial gathering will be held for Joel on June 11, 2022 from 9:30 am until the funeral service at 11:00 am at Schneider, Leucht, Merwin & Cooney Funeral Home 1211 N. Seminary Avenue Woodstock, IL 60098. Burial will be in Greenwood Cemetery near his childhood home.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the American Diabetes Association or the copdfoundation.org
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