John Andrew Erickson

John Andrew Erickson, 75, of Grants Pass, Oregon, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on March 4, 2026. Born on August 28, 1950, in Stambaugh, Michigan, he was a much-loved son, brother, partner, and uncle.

John attended Bates Elementary School and graduated from Iron River High School, where he played percussion in the band and excelled academically. He went on to Ferris State University, where he was active in campus life and sang with the Ferris Wheels. He earned a degree in pharmacology and worked as a pharmacist for many years before opening his own pharmacy in Pahoa, Hawaii, which he operated for a decade. After selling the business, he settled in Grants Pass, Oregon, where he lived the rest of his life with his partner, Joe Rea.

John cherished RV trips with family and traveling with his dogs. He loved gathering friends and family in his home, offering generous hospitality and quiet support to those in need. He found joy in singing and playing the piano, and he was known for his sharp wit, keen intelligence, candid opinions, and lively conversations. His humor and unmistakable voice left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.

He is survived by his partner, Joe Rea; his brother, Paul W. Erickson of Glendale, Arizona; his sisters, Lynn Degroot and husband Ron Vague of Mesa, Arizona, and Carole Erickson-Head and husband Lance Head of Mesa, Arizona; eleven nieces and nephews; 29 great-nieces and nephews; and 14 great-great-nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, Harry Arthur Erickson; his mother, Mildred V. Copeland Erickson; and his sister, Garnet Louise Erickson Murrock.