Emery Vernon Erickson

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Erickson, Emery Vernon Age 95 of Golden Valley previously from Edina. Preceded in death by his parents, Frank & Hulda, and first wife Mary Jean and numerous precious dogs. Survived by wife rubye, sister Marilyn, daughters Janice Miller and Nanci (Jeff) Shapiro. Grandchildren Noah (Jennifer Saunders) Miller, Carissa Miller, Beth (Scott Boscapomi) Shapiro and Dan (Nicole) Shapiro. Also, by great grandchildren Emily and Anna Shapiro, Solomon and Benjamin Boscapomi. Born in Thief River Falls, Mn on September 21, 1926 - died suddenly on January 2, 2022. Emery served in the Navy during WWII and was a graduate of the University of Minnesota. He worked at Investors Diversified Services (American Express) in finance for 32 years. Over his lifetime he found great joy in volunteering at many organizations including the Jaycees, Big Brothers, Jr Achievement, Aquatennial, Goodwill, Special Olympics, Little League, International Friendship Force, Helping Paws, and the National Ski Patrol, among others. His favorite volunteer job was training Alta, a Service Dog, who eventually was placed as a facility dog at Mayo Clinic. For a time, Emery raised honeybees and went to his grandkids schools to teach about them about their importance. He was also a master woodworker, creating many varied useful items big and small, as well as building their home in Edina and cabin in Wisconsin. However, his greatest joy and gift was reaching out to family and friends. Never one to sit and feel glum, he would pick up the phone to call old friends or family members to check on them. Most importantly he loved supporting and encouraging his family. He will be sorely missed by his family, and everyone who knew him - he was truly a mensch. A Service of Remembrance will be held in his honor on April 6, 2022 at Covenant Living, Golden Valley. Memorials preferred to Helping Paws Service Dogs @ helpingpaws.org

Published on January 9, 2022