Dr. Paul I. Erickson

Dr. Paul I. Erickson
August 13, 1951 – August 11, 2022

Son, brother, father, veteran, and friend, Paul touched thousands of people’s lives all over the world.  He made friends quickly with the flash of a smile and a relatable story for almost anyone.  He was a Student of Life, with interests from agronomy to astronomy, the Caribbean to Vermont. A beer and a cigarette in his hand became his constant companions and sadly, were the cause of his death.

Paul was born in Casper, Wyoming, August 13, 1951.  He passed away in Oklahoma City, August 11, 2022.  

Paul is survived by his daughters Rachael Rice and Fern Miller, grandchildren Morgan and Noah Miller, his mother Barbara Erickson, sisters Lael Erickson and Andrea (Steve) Johnson, brothers Steve Erickson, Joel (Rona) Erickson, Mahlon (Jean) Erickson, and Vince (Mary) Erickson, and many nieces, nephews, and friends all over the world. Paul was predeceased by the love of his life, Valerie Rice Erickson, his father John Erickson, and older brother Jack Erickson.

Paul graduated from NW Classen High School in Oklahoma City and received his PhD in Horticulture and Crop Science from Oklahoma State University.  He served in the Army during the Vietnam Conflict, and honorably discharged in 1972.  Paul pursued a long career in the sciences in New Jersey, Vermont, Florida, Arizona, Oklahoma, Nevis and St. Lucia, until his illness made it impossible to continue. 

We will miss our child, brother, father, uncle and friend. A memorial service will be scheduled at a later date.

Mwen renmen ou, Paul. (I love you, Paul – Island Creole)