Florence M. Erickson was gently cradled into the arms of Jesus May 28, 2016, after 95 years of active life to meet with loved ones who passed before.

Florence was born on Aug. 30, 1920, in Dayton, Ohio to Thurman and Sarah Elnore (Brandt) Ward; she was the first born. She has been a long time resident of the area. Florence worked at Pavey State Farm Insurance and most recently for John Small Insurance Agency in Walkerton until she was into her 80’s. Her social activities included: Order of Eastern Star as a High Matron and Mother Advisor of Rainbow Girls at Walkerton, Business Women of Walkerton and Rebekah Lodge of Tyner. She married Bernard B. Erickson on Jan. 28, 1939; he preceded her in passing Nov. 2, 1994.

Florence is survived by her four daughters: Celeste Robbins, Plymouth; Jolanna Erickson, N.C.; Sonya (Ron) Davidson, Plymouth; and Tonya Vink, Plymouth; four sons: Bernard Erickson, Jr., Bremen; Edward Erickson, Plymouth; Jon (Laurie) Erickson, Ga.; Kurt Erickson, South Bend. She was further blessed with 30 grandchildren; 52 great-grandchildren; 14 great-great-grandchildren; three sisters: Donnabelle Bennett, Ark.; Norma Beatty, Plymouth; and Phyllis Jernstrom, Plymouth. She was preceded in death by her husband; son: Frederick Lyle at age 8; three sisters: Wanda; Thelma; Avon; and her brother: Thurman.

The Van Gilder Funeral Home is honored to be caring for the Erickson family. The family will have a celebration of her life from 2-5 p.m. Saturday, June 18, at her oldest son Bernie’s home.

The Erickson family requests memorial contributions in honor of Florence be given to the Shriner’s Children’s Hospital of Chicago or Riley Children’s Hospital of Indianapolis.