Harlan Erickson

Harlan Erickson, 76, of Missoula, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, October 15, 2024, at his home surrounded by loved ones.

Born on March 21, 1948, in Minot, North Dakota, to Orris and Evelyn (Kittleson) Erickson, Harlan was the eldest of five children and a devoted champion and protector of his younger siblings.

In his early childhood, Harlan’s family moved to Missoula, where he attended Missoula County High School, now known as Hellgate High School. He enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1965, serving overseas in Vietnam and Germany, and was honorably discharged in 1968. It was these early years where Harlan began to cultivate his lifelong passions for music and cars. He had a special love for playing guitar and often filled his home with music that brought joy to those around him. His enthusiasm for cars and music was rivaled only by his deep faith in Christ and his love for sharing stories with friends and family. 

After his military service, Harlan married Sharon Dean in 1971. Together, they had three children: Jenise, Michelle, and Justin, before going their separate ways. Harlan later met the love of his life, Roberta “Bobbie” James, and the couple was united in marriage on June 23, 1984, in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho. Harlan was the safe port in the storm for Bobbie and the couple remained married and life-long partners and friends until the end.

Harlan had a diverse career, working as a truck driver, cable technician, and in a sawmill. However, he took the greatest pride in his roles as a husband and father. He enjoyed participating in bowling, dart, and pool leagues, and was an active member of the American Legion. Until his illness, he cherished his weekly coffee gatherings with his Vietnam Coffee Buddies. Harlan's loyalty and love for his family and friends were evident in all he did. Above all else, he was a loyal husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend and he will be deeply missed.

Harlan is survived by his beloved wife, Bobbie Erickson; children Shayne James; Jenise (Bill) Cockhill; Michelle (Troy) Downard; Peggy (Justin) Noyes; and Justin (Justine) Erickson; as well as his sisters, Diane Erickson and Donna (Bob) Savage; sister-in-law Charlene Erickson, widow of Orlan; his grandchildren, Chase, Austin, Eric, Ashtan, Alex, Anna and Lillian; numerous nieces, nephews, extended family, and many friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Orris and Evelyn Erickson, and brothers, Orlan and Leon Erickson.

A visitation will be held from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Monday, October 21, 2024, at Garden City Funeral Home. Following the visitation, a graveside service with military honors will take place at 1:30 p.m. at Western Montana State Veterans Cemetery. A reception will follow at the Church of Christ, located at 1528 S. Higgins.

Online condolences may be left at gardencityfh.com.