Gilbert Erickson, 101, of Walworth, died May 25, 2015, at Golden Years of Walworth.
He was born March 20, 1914, in Chicago to Harry and Anna (nee Swanson) Erickson.
He was the chief engineer of diesel engine research and development for International Harvester in Melrose Park, Ill., until his retirement. He started Walworth Builders Inc. and built many homes throughout Walworth County. He served as the president of the Fontana Elementary School Board in the 1980s. He was the treasurer of the Walworth/Fontana Rotary Club for years and travelled to Haiti twice to dig water wells.
He is survived by his wife, Margit (nee Anderson), whom he married on June 21 1969; his son, David G. (Kay) Erickson; step-granddaughter, Teresa Hagan; step-great-grandchildren, Jaiden and Keira Koo.
Visitation will take place from 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday at Toynton’s Walworth Funeral Home, 328 Kenosha St. and from 9:30 a.m. Friday until the time of service at 10 a.m.
Memorial contributions may be given to the Delavan United Church of Christ, 123 Washington St., Delavan or the Rotary Club of Walworth-Fontana.
Toynton’s Walworth Funeral Home is assisting the family.
