John B. Erickson, age 86, of Annandale, formerly of Ortonville and Robbinsdale, died Wednesday, May 21, 2025, at the Annandale Care Center.
Memorial Services will be held 11:00 a.m. Thursday, May 29, 2025, at Christ the Servant Lutheran Church in Vadnais Heights with visitation one hour prior to the service. Pastor Jon Yurk will officiate. Memorials preferred to the Annandale Health and Community Services – Care Center Activities Department.
John Bertil Erickson was born on September 23, 1938, in Robbinsdale, Minn., to Erick and Sophie (Lagerquist) Erickson. John’s journey began in Robbinsdale, where he graduated from Robbinsdale High School before pursuing higher education. After 30 plus years as an inspector at Kurt Manufacturing in Fridley, John retired in 1997. He embraced his post-retirement life with joy, moving to his beloved cabin on Lake Sylvia near Annandale in 2000, where he enjoyed countless moments of serenity surrounded by nature.
On December 6, 1957, John married his first love, Sandra Ponto, in Iowa. Their years together were filled with warmth and companionship, while raising their three sons until her passing. On October 8, 2005, he found love again, marrying Delaine Strong in Battle Lake, Minn., creating a blended family with shared experiences.
John’s passions were many: he was a fervent supporter of the Minnesota Twins, an avid golfer, and a lover of fishing and dancing. He was not one to shy away from a game of cribbage or bingo, polka dancing, and music. Whether it was pontoon rides on the lake, indulging in popcorn and pancakes, or spending winters in Arizona, John made every moment count, creating lasting memories with those he loved.
John is survived by his wife, Delaine Strong Erickson of Ortonville; children, Bob (Sindee) of Kimball, Rick (Debbie) of Vadnais Heights, and Dennis (Becky) of Wyoming, Minn.; stepchildren, Mark (Amy) Strong of Shoreview, Paul (Ruth) Strong of Ortonville, Robert (Theresa) Strong of Peoria, Ill., and John (Kristy) Strong of Paynesville; brother-in-law, Steve Ponto; six grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; many step-grandchildren, step-great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, other family members and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Sandra; brothers and sisters, Everett, Margaret, Kenny, Arnie.
John’s grandchildren will serve as urn bearers. Arrangements are entrusted to Dingmann Funeral Care Burial and Cremation Services of Annandale.
Obituary, Guestbook, Video Tribute, and Funeral Webcast are online at www.dingmannfuneral.com.