Eldon Howard Erickson was born on July 24, 1939, the son of Floyd Albert and Sadie (Larson) Erickson in Harlan, Iowa. He received his early education at a country school southwest of Harlan, completing eighth grade before graduating from Harlan High School with the Class of 1957. Shortly after graduation, he enlisted in the United States Air Force, where he served honorably as an air policeman with assignments in Texas, Korea, and Louisiana. He was honorably discharged in 1961.
On September 3, 1961, Eldon was united in marriage to Lesly Hansen at the First Christian Church in Harlan. The couple first made their home in Harlan, later moving to Emmetsburg for three years before returning to Harlan, where they spent the rest of their lives. They were blessed with a son, Trevor, who brought immense joy to their lives. Trevor’s passing from leukemia in 1993 was a heartbreaking loss that left a deep void in their hearts.
Throughout his working years, Eldon held various jobs, reflecting his strong work ethic and versatile skills. He served as a police officer for the Harlan Police Department, worked at the Ready-Mix Plant, delivered milk for Wells Blue Bunny Dairy, and was employed with Claire Lyons Plumbing. He also worked for Mutual of Omaha and assisted Richard Pauley with setting up mobile homes, wiring, and plumbing. Lastly, Eldon worked at Harlan Manufacturing/Jacobs Corporation and proudly retired in 2004.
In addition to his professional life, Eldon remained active in his community. From 1999 until his passing, he served as the secretary of the Harlan Cemetery Board. He was also a member of the VFW. In his younger years, he enjoyed working on cars and later took pride in remodeling his home entirely on his own, handling everything from carpentry to plumbing. He found pleasure in visiting with family, spending time on the computer, and grilling and cooking out for loved ones. One of his most cherished memories was celebrating his final birthday at home, surrounded by family and enjoying a homemade angel food cake lovingly baked by his nephew, Tracy and his wife, Michelle, using his mother’s recipe.
Eldon passed away at his home on Tuesday, July 29, 2025, at the age of 86 years and five days. He was preceded in death by his parents; son, Trevor Erickson; siblings: Mal (Sally) Erickson, Richard (Ann) Erickson, Darlene (Dean) Philson and Ron Erickson.
He is survived by his wife of over 63 years, Lesly Erickson of Harlan; several nieces and nephews; great-nieces and great-nephews; and other family members and friends.
Visitation with the family greeting friends will be held from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Friday, August 1, 2025, at the Heartland Funeral Home in Harlan. His graveside service with military honors will be held privately with the family at the Harlan Cemetery.
Services are entrusted to the Heartland Funeral Home in Harlan.
