James Erickson

James ""Jim"" William (Elfy) Erickson, Sr. 58, Ypsilanti, North Dakota, died Thursday, February 24, 2011 at his home as a result of a heart attack.

Jim was born April 14, 1952 at Trinity Hospital in Jamestown, the son of Carl and Violet (Jibbens) Erickson. He was baptized and confirmed at Ypsilanti Lutheran Church. Jim attended grades 1-6 at Ypsilanti grade school and grades 7-12 at Jamestown High School, graduating in 1970. While in high school, he earned the State Star Chapter Farmer and was FFA president of the Jamestown chapter during his senior year. He worked for Duane's Service Station, Montgomery Ward Tire Shop, Klug and Smith and helped build Ladish Malting Plant, which he was very proud of. He also farmed the 4th generation family farm for many years.

Jim married Julie Brown in 1977 and had two beautiful children, James William, Jr. and Jill Anita. He married Barb Hurley on June 1, 1991 and was the step-father to TyLeigh, Teisha and Heather jo.

Jim enjoyed hunting, fishing, and watching the Vikings and Twins and NASCAR. He was a member of the Ypsi 50 Plus Club and Montpelier Lutheran Church.

Jim is survived by his wife, Barb, Ypsilanti; children, James (Amanda) Erickson, Jr. and Jill (Adam) Hejtmanek, both of West Fargo, ND; three grandsons, Logan and Grady Erickson and Colt Hejtmanek; three brothers, Calvin (Mary) Erickson, Fargo, ND, Richard Erickson, Bismarck and Jay Erickson, Jamestown; one sister, Julie (Kurt) Anderson, Jamestown; three nieces; one special nephew, Tony Anderson; three step-children; 10 step-grandchildren; one step-great granddaughter; special aunt, Dorothy Willey, Fargo, ND; many aunts, uncles, cousins and special friend, Dick Schultz.

He was preceded in death by his parents.