Karl Everet Erickson, 78

Karl Everet Erickson, 78, passed away Thursday, June 27, 2019, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center after a year and a half battle with MDS, a bone marrow cancer.

He was born May 6, 1941, in Douglas, Arizona. He married his high school sweetheart, Joyce, on Sept. 28, 1963, in Culver City, California. They had one daughter, Tracy, in July of 1973.

He leaves behind his beloved wife of 55 years, Joyce (Bumback) Erickson; his daughter Tracy (Erickson) Toavs, son-in-law Ed Toavs, and four grandchildren, Katie, Christine, David and Rebecca Toavs; a brother, Fred Erickson and sister-in-law Pam Erickson, niece Amy (Erickson) Kilionski, and a brother-in-law Richard Bumback, and nephew Bill Bumback.

Karl was a 27-year veteran of the Los Angeles Police Department, and his dream was to retire to Montana with his wife. He saw this dream become a reality in July of 1995, where has resided in Kalispell until the day of his death.

He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, provider and protector. His greatest love was his family whom he served selflessly, always putting them first.

He was an active member of Canvas Church (Kalispell Christian Center) since 1996 where he made many dear friends.

He loved the outdoors, fishing, camping, motorcycle riding, water skiing, and even just working in the yard. He could fix, build, repair, plan, trouble-shoot, etc., almost anything. He loved Montana and was rarely seen without his trademark cowboy hat. He was a great man of integrity and honor, who left a legacy of godliness, beauty, grit and an impacting far beyond family, to churches and a state. We genuinely grieve his absence, but find comfort in his faith in Jesus, and in the precious memories that remain. We celebrate his welcome into God’s presence.

A celebration of life will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, July 20, at the Canvas Church.

Friends are encouraged to visit the website www.buffalohillfh.com to leave notes of condolence for the family. Buffalo Hill Funeral Home and Crematory is caring for the family.