John Robert Erikson

Devoted husband and loving father, John Robert “Bob” Erikson, passed away on December 28, 2020, in Orinda, California, at the age of 99.

He was born in Duluth, Minnesota, to Rev. Johan Alfred and Ida Elizabeth Erikson. His sister was Ruth Elizabeth who later married Milton Arnold Ellison.

As the son of a Swedish Baptist Minister, Bob moved many times during his youth. In his teenage years, he attended Oakland High School in Oakland, California, graduating in 1939. During WWII, he proudly served as Master Sergeant in the United States Army facilitating our efforts in the pacific arena.

It was in 1947, that Bob married Betty Lou Jorgensen, a marriage that would last 73 years and produce two children, John Stephen and Carol Ann.

In 1952, Bob graduated from Golden Gate University in San Francisco, California.

By 1959, the Eriksons would finally set down roots in Orinda, California, to live in a new home built to their specifications. This would be their home for the next 61 years.

Beginning in the mailroom, Bob ascended through the ranks into accounting, eventually distinguishing himself as a supervisor in the tax department of the Chevron Corporation. He enjoyed his work there, the relationships that developed and the challenges of each day. After 40 years of service, he retired in 1983.

Though now retired, he kept himself abreast of current news and events. He enjoyed reading. His mind was quick, his personality friendly and compelling. He was a man of integrity and grit. A relatively private person, he nevertheless appreciated good, hardworking, honest folk, friendly conversation and good humor. He connected with people and frequently visited with friends and family. We have been enriched by his life, his sincere care and concern for others and his generosity (often unseen) given to those people and causes close to his heart. His faith was strong, his foundation sure. He loved his church, his family and his friends. His utmost love and devotion was to his Lord and Sovereign Heavenly Father. He is greatly missed; however we rejoice in his homecoming.

Bob was preceded in death by his son, John Stephen in 2009. He is survived by his wife, Betty Lou; his daughter, Carol Ann; granddaughter and husband, Bridget and Travis Langhals; great grandsons, Grayson and Landon; and nieces, Donna Myint and Marcia Ellison.

A graveside service is scheduled for January 21, 1:00 pm, at Sunset View Mortuary, 101 Colusa Avenue, El Cerrito, California 94530.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be given to the following:
Lafayette-Orinda Presbyterian Church
Walnut Creek Presbyterian Church
The Salvation Army
The American Bible Society
Or, your charity of choice