Retired Covenant pastor Richard Allen Erickson died on October 28, 2021, in Rancho Cucamonga, California. He was 72.
He was born to Charles and Doris Erickson in Upland, California, on February 26, 1949. After high school, Rick enlisted in the Air Force and was stationed in the Philippines. When he returned to the United States, he enrolled at University of California-Davis, where he met Schelly Thompson. They were married on June 12, 1976.
He earned an MDiv from North Park Seminary and a DMin from Fuller Seminary. He was ordained in 1981. Rick served as associate pastor of University Covenant Church in Davis, California, then planted a church in Bakersfield. He became a marriage and family counselor. After many years in that work, he served as a missionary with Greater European Missions. For the 12 years, he lived in Budapest, Hungary, where he served missionary families living in Europe.
Rick will be remembered for his commitment to God; his sense of humor; his love of adventure, family, the outdoors, and dogs; and his dedication to serving others.
He is survived by his children, Scott (Polly) and Amy; two grandsons; his ex-wife, Schelly; brothers Bob and Bruce, and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents and his sister-in-law, Teresa.
Peace be to his memory.
