Dr. Donald Erickson

SOUTH CASCO — Donald G. Erickson, 78, of South Casco, passed away unexpectedly on March 29, 2014.

Don was born on July 3, 1935, in Worcester, Mass. to Gustaf and Gladys Erickson. He grew up in Worcester and attended South High School, where he met Nancy, the love of his life. Don and Nancy were married on June 7, 1957.

Don attended Harvard College on scholarship and graduated in 1957 with an AB degree. He then attended Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, receiving his medical degree in 1961. He completed an internship at James A. Taylor Hospital in Bangor in 1962. Don was a traditional family physician in rural Maine for 41 years. He considered it an honor and a privilege to be entrusted with the comfort and care of multiple generations, making house calls up to the day of his retirement in Jan. 2004. During his medical practice, Don was a member of the Maine Osteopathic Society (MOA). He received the MOA family physician of the year award in 1991.

At various times during his family practice years, Don was a health officer in Raymond, and the school physician for SAD 61. He precepted freshman students of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine. He was also a classroom instructor at NECOM. After retiring, Don pursued his lifelong interest in horticulture and landscaping by working at the Portland Country Club and starting his own business, Grandpa’s Gardens. Other interests included woodworking and country collectibles.

Don was tirelessly devoted to his loved ones; he believed wholeheartedly that “A  Man’s Greatest Treasure is His Family .” He took immense pride and joy spending time with his beloved girls and grandchildren.

Don was predeceased by his son, Timothy Brooks Erickson, and his beloved wife, Nancy Elizabeth Erickson. He is survived by his loving daughters Pamela Beth Rankin, Amy Erickson Corkhill, Melissa Warren, and Beth Boos; his adored grandchildren, R. Brooks Rankin, Kathryn Wagner, Brianna Xin Ying Warren, Aleah Li Qiu Warren; Emily Elizabeth Bartlett, Olivia Anne Bartlett, David James Boos; and Grace Ni Su Corkhill; and his precious great-grandchildren, Jake Murphy Wagner and Charlotte Joyce Wagner. Don is also survived by his brothers, Paul Erickson of Auburn, Mass. and Alan Erickson of Brunswick.

A private service was held on April 1, 2014, at Dolby Funeral Chapel in South Windham, Maine. In lieu of flowers, Don requested donations in memory of Nancy Erickson, designated for toys and entertainment for the children at Barbara Bush Children’s Hospital, Child Life Fund, 22 Bramhall, St., Portland, ME 04102.

Dad, you lived your life hoping you made a little difference. You made an immeasurable difference and left an inspiring legacy of love. We love you, Don, Dad, Grandpa, Poppa. In the words of Nan, “You done good D.G.”