James Lee Erickson

James Lee Erickson, affectionately known by many as Jim, Jamie, Leif, Erie, or Fairway Jesus, passed away on September 28, 2025, in Hot Springs, Arkansas. He was 71 years old.

Born on November 25, 1953, in Sioux City, Iowa, Jim was the son of Francis (F.J.) and Lucille Erickson. He was also the biological child of Paul and Veronica Chase.

From an early age, Jim displayed a vibrant personality and a zest for life that would become his hallmark.

Jim graduated from Saint Joseph High School and went on to attend Louisiana State University on a golf scholarship—an early testament to his lifelong passion for the sport. Golf remained a central part of his life; it was not only a game but a way he connected with others and found joy in competition and camaraderie.

Professionally, Jim achieved great success as the CEO and Chairman of the Board for Alliance Foods before retiring. His leadership left a lasting impact on those he worked with. Jim also served many memorable and comical years on the skit committee as a Noon Rotary member, eventually becoming a honorary Rotarian.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Jim was known for his magnetic presence. He had an infectious aura that illuminated every room he entered. Charming, eloquent, and well spoken, Jim had an extraordinary ability to strike up conversations with anyone and find common ground. To many, he wasn't just a friend—he was their best friend.

Jim's interests were as dynamic as his personality. In addition to golf, he was a self-taught chef who delighted in creating meals for those around him. He enjoyed hunting waterfowl, downhill skiing, boating, gambling, and watching sports.

He is lovingly remembered by his daughter Laurel Walkup; son Logan Erickson; grandchildren Rylan and Aubrey Walkup; sister Veronica (Paul) Crane; nieces Jennifer Crouse, Jamie Crouse, and Pauline Crane; nephews Geoffrey Crouse and Ben Crane, and partner Sheila Erickson.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Francis (F.J.) and Lucille Erickson; birth-parents Paul and Veronica Chase; brother, Randy Chase, and ex-wife Elizabeth Erickson.

Jim's legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched through friendship, leadership, laughter, and love. May his memory bring comfort to all who knew him.

A Celebration of Life, honoring both Jim and Elizabeth's lives, will be held on November 22nd, 2025 from 2pm - 5pm at Oscar Browns Tavern in Coldwater, MI.

Friends and family are invited to celebrate their lives and those who loved them.

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