I first met Nancy through a neighborhood Bunco group we belonged to. Since moving to Cedar Rapids in 2002 I have substitute taught, and was always happy to fill in for her at Erskine. I know from talking to her students that she was well loved. She was a lovely, gracious lady, and I am sincerely sorry about her loss Prayers for peace to all, and may you treasuee her memory.

Chamaine Snell
January 6, 2019

So sorry for your loss, Steve. Not much else to say, but I do send you kind thoughts and the best hopes you guys successfully negotiate the Nancy-shaped hole in your family's life. Be good to each other.

Tim Crosby
January 6, 2019

Sending your family my deepest sympathy. I worked with Nancy many years ago at Nixon School. She was such a friendly, happy person and a fantastic music teacher. It was obvious that she loved what she did. So very sorry for this tremendous loss.

Priscilla Polehna
January 7, 2019

We are sending our deepest sympathy to your family. Nancy's legacy lives in the hundreds of students with whom she shared her love of music. She was instrumental in our son's love a vocal music and band. There is a special place in heaven for her.

Brent and Karen Pahl
January 7, 2019

I had the pleasure of meeting Nancy as a parent coming to school activities for her sons. She was such a positive, energetic, kind, and very caring mom. And she always remembered me when we were out and about in the community. A real people person who loved her life and her family. I am so sorry for your loss. Prayers of comfort to you all.

Dixie Estrem
January 7, 2019

We fondly remember Nancy when she was in high school in Algona. I was the pastor of First Congregational Church, and I loved to have her sing her beautiful solos (as well as sing in the choir). One in particular that I remember was, "I Don't Know How to Love Him," from "Jesus Christ, Superstar," when that was popular. We shared Christmas correspondence with the Ericksons for many year. We are sorry she left us so soon. Roger & Emily Brooks January 10, 2019

Roger & Emily Brooks
January 10, 2019

Nancy, Steve and the boys were a part of our circle of friends when we lived in Bowman Woods. My memories of Nancy are always framed with her beautiful smile. Always happy and kind, she managed to brighten the lives of everyone she touched. Please know that all the boys are in our prayers and that Nancy will be missed but not forgotten. Ted Kraft 1/10/2019

Ted Kraft
January 10, 2019

Dear Steve and family, We are so saddened to hear of Nancy’s passing. Nancy and I met through our neighborhood Bunco group years ago. We became good friends when your family moved to Wilton Dr. our youngest boys were also friends. Nancy was always full of energy! She’d walk by my house nearly everyday and I’d join her on occasion, but I always had a hard time keeping up with her! Nancy had a beautiful smile and a wonderful laugh that I’ll never forget. Anywhere we went, someone would know Nancy! Students, past students, parents of students, teachers. Nancy knew everyone in the neighborhood. We shared many walks, talks, laughs, a few tears, a few glasses of wine, lunches and golf games together. Nancy was taken way too soon from this world. She will be so missed, but remembered as a beautiful soul who loved life, cherished her husband and family, and loved her profession. I will miss my outgoing, fun loving, true friend. Please know you are in our thoughts and prayers. Ellen Kuster and family

Ellen kuster
January 11, 2019

Dear Steve and family, We are so saddened to hear of Nancy’s passing. Nancy and I met through our neighborhood Bunco group years ago. We became good friends when your family moved to Wilton Dr. our youngest boys were also friends. Nancy was always full of energy! She’d walk by my house nearly everyday and I’d join her on occasion, but I always had a hard time keeping up with her! Nancy had a beautiful smile and a wonderful laugh that I’ll never forget. Anywhere we went, someone would know Nancy! Students, past students, parents of students, teachers. Nancy knew everyone in the neighborhood. We shared many walks, talks, laughs, a few tears, a few glasses of wine, lunches and golf games together. Nancy was taken way too soon from this world. She will be so missed, but remembered as a beautiful soul who loved life, cherished her husband and family, and loved her profession. I will miss my outgoing, fun loving, true friend. Please know you are in our thoughts and prayers. Ellen Kuster and family

Ellen kuster
January 12, 2019

Mr. Ericson and family, I am sorry for your loss of Nancy. She was such a dynamic music teacher at Erskine. I worked with her for a short time--3 years at Erskine. You could not help but be drawn in by her enthusiasm toward the children and music she had them perform. Every child had a part. I am so glad that I was able to have known and worked with her.

Mary Abbey
January 12, 2019

I worked with Nancy at Erskine Elementary for several years. Both of my children attended Erskine and enjoyed her classes and the special programs she prepared. I was so glad I was able to attend the celebration of Nancy's life. The stories shared by her friends and family reinforced my memories of a wonderful friend and teacher. I hope they do the same for you.

Nancy Ritter
January 13, 2019

I thought of a good friend who I haven’t seen since 1984. Nancy and I taught together at Western Hills Elementary before I moved away. She was so ambitious and talented. We had the best time when we team taught a square dance unit at Western Hills. I do believe the kids enjoyed it, too! When I finally sat down to the computer to try and find Nancy, I discovered this sad news. I was so hoping I could reconnect with her. I am happy to hear that she had a fulfilling career and was loved by so many. I know this is very late and I wish I had stayed connected to such a special lady. I will say a special prayer for the Erickson family tonight. Writing from Olathe, KS. 3/15/24

Janie Sampson Cowan
March 15, 2024