Arthur LeRoy Erickson

Latham, NY LTC Arthur "Swede" LeRoy Erickson, a dedicated soldier, loving father, and cherished friend, passed away at home in Latham surrounded by family, on October 30, 2024, at the age of 97. Born on January 6, 1927, in Vermillion, South Dakota, Arthur grew up in a close-knit family, instilling in him the values of hard work and commitment. He attended the University of South Dakota before serving in the Navy during World War II, where he was stationed in Pensacola. After the war, Arthur continued his education at the United States Military Academy at West Point, where he was also known as Swede, graduating in 1952. That same year, he married Ardith Margaret Merritt from Boonton, New Jersey, embarking on a journey of love and service that would define his life. Arthur served his country with honor during the Korean War, earning a Purple Heart and nomination for the Silver Star for his bravery. He later earned a Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from Johns Hopkins University. He served as a professor in the Department of Earth, Space, and Graphic Sciences at West Point, where he taught astronomy to future military leaders. Over a distinguished 20-year career in the U.S. Army, he achieved the rank of Lieutenant Colonel, demonstrating unwavering dedication to his soldiers and his mission. Arthur is survived by five loving children: LtCol (USAF) Tenley Erickson-Ranum PhD, (Capt (USAF) Sather Ranum), COL (USA) Marleigh Erickson MD, Eric Erickson (Ellen Reitemeyer), Nils Erickson, and Lt CFD Nik Erickson (Dayna Cebel RN, RT). He was also a proud grandfather to six grandchildren: SGT (USA) Theron, Fiona, Keith, Griffin, Liam and Eva. He is also survived by 13 nieces and nephews and numerous grand and great nieces and nephews. He leaves behind his second wife, Marianne. Arthur was preceded in death by his beloved wife Ardith, his parents, nine siblings and 9 neices and nephews. He will be remembered for his strength, kindness, humor and the love he shared with his family. A memorial service to honor Arthur’s remarkable life and burial at West Point is scheduled for December 18th 2025. Please refer to the Marra Funeral Home website for details (https://www.marrafuneralhome.com/). In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a charity of your choice or to Southern Adirondack Independent Living (https://givebutter.com/e1kuCN) To attend the funeral of Arthur Erickson, you must enter the installation as part of the funeral procession. Procession to the Old Cadet Chapel will step off at approximately 1:15 pm from the West Point Visitor Center, 2107 New South Post Rd, West Point, NY 10996. 1. Please arrive at or before 1:00 pm and gather in the North end of the parking lot, near the school bus and large truck parking area. 2. Those in the procession will not need to show ID or go through the background check process. 3. At the time of passing, all West Point graduates receive a tribute page where family, colleagues and classmates can share thoughts and memories which bring comfort to the family. We encourage you to leave a story or memory of Arthur on his Be Thou At Peace page. 4. A memorial reception to follow the graveside service at The Thayer Hotel, 674 Thayer Rd, West Point NY 10996.

Arthur LeRoy Erickson

January 6, 1927 - October 30, 2024