John L 'Jack' Erickson, age 86, of San Marino, passed away August 7, 2021, after three weeks in the hospital with pneumonia. He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Mary Bateman Erickson (SPHS '53), and multitudes of friends and family.

Jack was born in Pasadena on June 8, 1935. He was raised in San Marino and graduated from South Pasadena-San Marino High School in 1953. He graduated from UC Berkeley in June 1957, where he was a proud Alpha Delt. Being an adventurous young man, he told his then sweetheart of two years, Mary, who had missed her own graduation from USC to attend his, that he wanted to 'date other people'. Without a blink, she agreed that she would as well. Jack then began his two years of required service in the Navy. After a few months on his first ship, he called Mary, and said, "Do you want to get married?" and she responded, "To who?!" Their playful and enduring companionship is a model of love and strength to all of us.

Jack went on to work as a food broker in the Los Angeles area for over 40 years. When not working, he and Mary spent lots of time fishing at Hot Creek Ranch and playing golf at their home in La Quinta. He was a member of San Gabriel Country Club for many years. They traveled frequently to Maui and many places in Europe, often with their favorite couples. 

Along with Mary, Jack is survived by daughter Karen Erickson of Oakland, California; and was predeceased by his son Mike Erickson (2015). Also surviving are his beloved daughter-in-law Pam Erickson and three granddaughters. He is survived by nieces and nephews, in-laws, and friends who will miss his big smile and love of life.

Los Angeles Times, August 15, 2021