Daniel “Joker” Erickson, age 45, of Merrill, died unexpectedly on Wednesday, November 30, 2016, as a result of a car accident. Dan was born on December 30, 1970 to Lawrence and Mary (Hinz) Raasch in Merrill. His mother survives. He attended and graduated from Merrill High School. Dan married Mechelle Vallecera Acuram Erickson in Mabini, Bohol in the Philippines on May 10, 2014. She survives.
Dan worked as a Boilermaker Journeyman for the Boilermaker 107 Union for over 20 years. His job allowed him to do a lot of traveling. When Dan was not working or on the road, he would enjoy cheering on his favorite sports teams, as well as watching Nascar races. He was an avid Green Bay Packers fan. When the weather was nice, he would play a round or two of golf. When he was younger, he loved to go hunting and fishing. Dan enjoyed being outdoors and being active. He is remembered as being a very helpful and caring man, with a giving spirit who was always funny and joking around and down to earth. When he was able, he cherished spending time with his wife and son, Denver. He will be sadly missed.
Dan is survived by his wife: Mechelle Vallecera Acuram Erickson, of the Philippines, son: Denver Erickson, of the Philippines, mother: Mary (Mike Daley) Raasch of Merrill, sisters: Laura Erickson and Jean Daley, both of Merrill, half-brother: Tommy Brooks of Rhinelander, grandmother: Virginia Hinz of Merrill: niece, Heather Halbach; nephews: Lazlo Kiesling of Jefferson and Leilend Eggebrecht of Merrill and many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. He was preceded in death by his father: Lawrence Erickson, grandparents: Clarence and Elsie Erickson and grandfather: Earl Hinz Sr.
A Memorial Service for Dan will be held on Wednesday, December 7, 2016 at 5pm at Waid Funeral Home. Rev. Scott Gustafson will officiate. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, December 7, 2016from 2pm until the time of the service, also at the funeral home. Waid Funeral Home of Merrill is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be made at www.waidfuneral.com.