Ronald Alfred Erickson

Ronald A. Erickson, 88, of Edina, passed away peacefully at home on December 7, 2024. Ron will be remembered for his love of family, lifelong passion for business, kind and generous spirit, sense of humor, and unassuming manner. Ron was born in Osceola, Wisconsin on September 23, 1936 to Rose and Alfred Erickson. He lived in Centuria, Wisconsin until age ten when his family moved to the Twin Cities. Ron graduated from The Blake School and the University of Minnesota with a Bachelor of Science in Law and a Bachelor of Law Degree. Upon graduation, Ron went to work in the family business, which was comprised of petroleum refining, retail petroleum and convenience store sales, wholesale distribution, and outdoor sporting goods. The combined business entities operated under the name Holiday Companies, for which Ron served as Chairman and CEO for nearly 50 years. He was proud that Holiday became the first retailer to build and operate what are now referred to as the "big box" grocery and general merchandise stores in the Twin Cities area. At the time of the company's sale and Ron's retirement, Holiday Stationstores operated over 500 locations across the US. Ron will be remembered by employees and professional associates for his loyalty, decency, and for promoting people from within the organization. He was honorable, trustworthy, and always sought to act with integrity. Ron served as a member of the National Association of Convenience Stores, member of the National Petroleum Council, and Chairman of the Independent Refiners Association. He held positions on several corporate boards including First Bank System (now U.S. Bank), Andersen Corporation, Carriage Services, and Gander Mountain. Ron met his wife, Kris, on a blind date and often said it was the best decision of his life. He and Kris would go on to welcome their son David, with whom they shared their love of skiing, golf and travel, with fond memories spent as a family in Vail, Scottsdale and Washington DC. In addition to being a wonderful father, Ron adored being a grandfather to his two young grandchildren. Throughout his life, Ron enjoyed a passion for cars and golf. He always looked forward to his next model car, with speed and comfort being his top criteria. Ron's love for golf and golf equipment was also well-known - especially his ever growing putter collection - as he frequently searched for the perfect answer to his game. Ron was preceded in death by his parents, Rose and Alfred Erickson, and his brother, Don. He is survived by his loving wife of 45 years, Kris, his son David (Kristen) and grandchildren, his brother Neal (Susan), and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends. The family would like to thank Ron's caregivers, Kristi, Mary Jane, and Tammy for their kindness and unwavering support. A service will be held Friday, January 10, 2025, at 11am with visitation one hour prior at Mount Olivet Lutheran Church (Minneapolis Campus), 5025 Knox Avenue South, Minneapolis, MN. In lieu of flowers, donations may be directed to Mount Olivet Lutheran Church or to a cause of the donor's choosing. To watch the service live please visit https://mtolivet.org/live-on-sundays/ www.Washburn-McReavy.com Edina Chapel 952-920-3996

Tributes

Ronald Alfred Erickson

September 23, 1936 - December 7, 2024

Tributes

Ronald Alfred Erickson

September 23, 1936 - December 7, 2024

We are here for you 24x7

Call us and get help now

(612) 377-2203