Carla Ann Erickson Obituary (1953 - 2009)

CARLA ANN ERICKSON Carla Ann Erickson, age 56, of Menomonie, WI died Wednesday, June 17, 2009 at her home. She was born Feb. 7, 1953 in Menomonie, WI to Ross and Florence (Batchelder) Erickson. Carla enjoyed life with an unforgettable smile and vowedly did her absolute best on everything. Over the years she earned recognition for her art, craft, and sporting abilities. In 1970 Dunn County crowned her our 4-H Queen. Her professional career included work with Special Olympics as vocational rehabilitation specialist. As life-long Menomonie resident she graduated from Menomonie High School in 1971 and U.W. Stout in 1976. Mostly, Carla devoted herself to family and friends. She wrote that she wanted her memorial service not only to celebrate her life but the life of those she loved. Showing her personal flair she further explained "to facilitate a celebratory atmosphere I declare that bright colored balloons decorate my service." The balloon idea reflects her vibrant and dynamic personality and also came from Carla's love for and collection of clowns. Carla is survived by: Her son, Atty. Adam R. Nelson of Greenville, NC A sister, Gloria (Gary) Scheel) of Menomonie Grandmother, Lillian Erickson of Menomonie Nieces and nephews, Cari Greenwood (Eric Engerson) of Baileys Harbor, WI Jodi (Chad) Peterson of Menomonie Roland (Jessica) Agustin of Menomonie Cory (Tammy) Erickson of Eau Claire Tonya (Dan) Hansen of Menomonie Former husband, James P. Nelson of Sebeka, MN Many great-nieces, great-nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, other relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her mother and father, two brothers, Jerome "Jerry" Erickson and Duane Erickson. A Memorial Service will be held at 2:00 PM Sunday, June 21, 2009 at the United Methodist Church in Menomonie, with Pastor Don Gribble officiating. There will be visitation at the church from 12:00 (Noon) until the time of the service on Sunday. Burial will be in Cedar Falls Cemetery in the Town of Red Cedar, Dunn Co., WI. Olson Funeral Home in Menomonie is assisting the family with arrangements.