Neil Martin Erickson

BESSEMER, Mich. – Neil Martin Erickson, 85, a long-time resident of Bessemer, passed away on Saturday, Dec. 7, 2024, at Aspirus Ironwood Hospital in Ironwood, after a courageous battle with cancer.

Neil was born on July 5, 1939, in Bessemer Township, a son of Harry R. and Minnie H. (Marquardt) Erickson. He attended A.D. Johnston High School and graduated in 1957. Neil went to college for one year.

On Feb. 5, 1959, Neil was inducted into the U.S. Army and proudly served his country for nearly two years. He was honorably discharged as a specialist fourth grade on Jan. 27, 1961. Neil then made his home in Waukegan, Illinois, for 10 years and worked at Goodyear Rubber Products. After his parents' untimely deaths, he moved back to Bessemer.

Neil was employed as a clerk and mail carrier for the U.S. Postal Service for more than 29 years. He retired from the Bessemer Post Office in 1999.

Neil was a faithful member of Our Redeemer Lutheran Church and a supporting member of the Bessemer American Legion Post 27.

Neil is survived by two nephews, James (Sue) Erickson, Kenosha, Wisconsin, and Jeffrey (Bonnie) Erickson, Burlington, Wisconsin; and numerous great-nieces and great-nephews.

He was predeceased by his parents, a brother and sister-in-law, LeRoy and Florence; and a sister, Donna Mae Erickson.

A funeral service will be held on Friday, Dec. 13, at 11 a.m., preceded by visitation at 10 a.m., at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church in Ramsay, with the Rev. Steve Hyvonen officiating.

Following the service, full military rites will take place at the church under the auspices of the Bessemer American Legion Post 27 and Bessemer Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3673 Honor Guard, assisted by the U.P. Funeral Honors Team.

A luncheon will be served at the church fellowship hall immediately following the military honors.

A committal service and interment will take place in the spring at the Hillcrest Cemetery in Bessemer.

Memorial contributions may be made to Our Redeemer Lutheran Church, E8223 Sanders Road, Bessemer, MI 49911.

Jerald Rocco, owner and manager of Lakeside Memorial Chapel Inc., in Wakefield, is assisting the family with arrangements. To send online condolences or to share a memory, please go to lakesidememorialchapel.com.