Carl D. Erickson, 85 Carl D. Erickson, age 85, passed away peacefully on June 10, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. Carl was born to Andrew and Bernice (Asbjornson) Erickson and was raised in Hawley, Minnesota. He was baptized and confirmed at Hawley Lutheran Church, where he developed the faith and values that guided him throughout his life. Carl graduated from Hawley High School, where he participated in baseball, basketball, and football, beginning a lifelong love of sports and athletics. Following high school, Carl attended Moorhead State College, graduating in 1962 with a degree in education. He began his career teaching and coaching in Gary, Minnesota, where he served from 1962 to 1968. He then earned his master’s degree in guidance counseling from North Dakota State University in 1968. Then, Carl joined Detroit Lakes High School as a guidance counselor, where he positively influenced the lives of countless students and athletes. Later, he accepted a position with the Minnesota Education Association as a field representative, continuing his lifelong commitment to education and service. On June 5, 1965, Carl married Karen Robertson of Hawley. Together they shared more than 60 years of marriage and built a life centered on faith, family, and community. They were blessed with four children: Steven, born in 1968; Jonathan, born in 1969; Sarah, born in 1972; and Kellie, born in 1975. Carl’s greatest joy was his family, and he cherished every opportunity to spend time with his children and grandchildren. He also loved spending time outdoors, especially hunting and fishing and enjoyed many days on the golf course with family and friends.

Carl is survived by his loving wife, Karen Erickson; his children, Steven Erickson; Jonathan (Amber) Erickson and their daughters, Eva and Amalie; Sarah (Nathan) Sieve and their children, Liam and Scarlett; and Kellie (Joe) and their daughter, Lily. He is also survived by his brother, Lawrence (Sandy) Erickson; brothers-in-law Charles (Carol) Robertson, David (Karie) Robertson, Michael (Gayle) Robertson, and Joseph (Christy) Robertson; sister-in-law, Ina Robertson; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Andrew and Bernice Erickson; his father-in-law, Raymond Robertson; his mother-in-law, Inger Robertson; and his brother-in-law, James Robertson.

Carl will be remembered for his dedication to education, his commitment to helping others, his love of hunting, fishing, and golf and, above all, his devotion to his family. His kindness, wisdom, sense of humor, and steady presence will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, July 11, 2026, at Hawley United Methodist Church. Visitation will begin at 1:00 p.m., followed by the service at 2:00 p.m.