James passed away peacefully in his sleep at Bel Rae Senior Living in Mounds View, Minnesota at the age of 98. Jim, along with his family, were long time residents of Fridley, Minnesota before he came to live at Bel Rae. James was born to Amanda and Norman Erickson on September 26, 1924 in Fargo, North Dakota.

Jim is survived by his son, Michael James Erickson (wife Patricia), and 4 grandchildren: Jhanel Ebert (husband Jens), Jeanine Kangas (husband Richard), Zach Erickson, and Tyler Erickson (significant other Sara). Jim is also survived by two great-grandchildren, Nicholas Ebert and Eva Kangas.

Jim is also survived by his daughter Susan Christine Young (husband James), and 4 grandchildren: Aaron Decker (wife Carolyn), Hayley Kolb (husband Jason), Stephanie Antles (husband Bryan), and Mamie Young. Jim is also survived by 9 great-grandchildren: Aaron Lee Decker (wife Cara), Isaac Decker, Megan Decker, Elizabeth Decker, William Decker, Callan Kolb, Breanna Antles, David Antles, and Mahadiah Blakely. 

Jim is also survived by two great-great grandchildren: Aaron Leonard Decker and Jaylyn York.

James is preceded in death by his wife, Hilda in 1993, his father, Norman Erickson, his mother Amanda Erickson, his brother Merle Erickson, his sister Myrtle Johnson, and sister Barbara Olson, along with one great-grandchild, Mason Kolb.

James graduated from Moorhead High School. He joined the US Army Air Corps where he met his wife, Hilda May Ailward of England. He was 2nd Lieutenant and served as a Bombardier Navigator in WWII. He married Hilda in 1946 after he finished his 4 years of service. He worked for the State of Minnesota as a Potato Inspector for many years. In 1966, they moved to Fridley, Minnesota where he worked for the Federal Government as a Produce Inspector. 

Jim was an avid golfer, especially after retiring. He also was on a bowling team. He loved walking and completing jigsaw puzzles and wood carving.

A remembrance gathering will be scheduled for the Spring of 2024.

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