Wayne F. Ericksen

Papa was born in Plentywood, MT at his grandmother’s house on February 8, 1944. 

He worked on various ranches as a teenager in the Beaverhead area. He then joined the Navy in 1962, then the Army in 1970. Papa served a tour in Vietnam in each branch. In 1972, he met his best friend of 50 years, Sandra Withington. The two were wed on May 12, 1973 in Copper’s Cove, TX. Wayne was deployed to Germany, however Sandra stayed behind in Dillon to welcome their first son, Larry, who was born on May 11, 1974. Their second son, Jason, was born on December 20, 1977, in Fort Huachuca, AZ. In 1978 Papa retired from the Army and they moved back to Dillon. He joined the Army National Guard until 1990 when he retired.

Wayne worked at Pfizer’s mine for several years before working for the maintenance department at Western Montana College. He also managed the Beaver Car Wash, later known as the Windancer Car Wash. Wayne retired from the college after 20 years in 2009, but he kept the car wash position until 2016.

Being an avid outdoorsman, Papa loved hunting, fishing, yard work, tinkering in his garage and anything that got him outside. His greatest love of all though was spending time with his family. Papa’s 2 sons, grandkids and great granddaughter were his whole world.

Papa had the kindest heart and was always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone. He was loved by many and will be missed dearly.

Wayne is survived by his wife Sandra, 2 sons Larry and Jason (Lindsey) Ericksen, grandchildren JD Stratton, Shaylee (Connor) Usher, Kristian Landis, Weston Ericksen, Bella Ericksen and Josee Ericksen, great granddaughter Charlotte Jean Usher, brothers Kenneth Ericksen and Leroy Ericksen and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

Wayne is proceeded in death by his parents Louie Erichsen and Addie DeMoss, siblings Andy Ericksen, Larry Erichsen, Vaneasa Buell, Isabell McAlpin and Deeann DuBois.

At Wayne’s request, no services will be held. 

If you would like to make a donation in his memory, please mail to Engine 18 Foundation, 1390 Driveway Lane, Dillon, MT 59725, noting Wayne Ericksen in the memo line.